Increases to annual minimum wage
Fair Work Commission has increased the national minimum wage and modern award minimum wages by 4.75 per cent in its Annual Minimum Wage decision announced today.
4.75 per cent increase to the national minimum wage and modern award minimum wages
How much is the minimum wage increase for my trade employees in 2024?
Affects all trade businesses including plumbers, electricians, builders, and HVAC technicians who employ award-rate workers. Will increase labour costs and may require adjustment to quotes and pricing.
Key takeaways
- Fair Work Commission has announced a 4.75% increase to minimum wages effective from today
- The increase applies to both national minimum wage and modern award minimum wages
- Trade businesses will need to adjust payroll for award-rate employees
- Labour costs will rise for businesses employing apprentices and award-covered workers
Related
Disability services provider Sunnyfield signs EU after $5 million underpayment
Disability services provider Sunnyfield has signed an Enforceable Undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman. It follows underpayments of about $5.43 million, including super and interest, affecting more than 1,700 workers.
Why it matters: Not directly about the trades, but it shows the Fair Work Ombudsman's approach to wage underpayment. Employers of tradies, including builders and electricians, should check pay rates and super obligations.
More than $470,000 in penalties imposed, as finance broking operator sanctioned for third time
The Fair Work Ombudsman won $478,880 in court penalties against two Melbourne companies and their manager. The conduct included systematic exploitation of migrant workers and adverse action. The finance broking operator has now been sanctioned three times.
Why it matters: The case is in finance broking, not the trades, so it has little direct impact. Trade employers who hire migrant workers can still see the Fair Work Ombudsman's enforcement and the penalties for repeat breaches.
Black coal mining investigations find high levels of compliance
The Fair Work Ombudsman's investigations into the black coal mining industry found high levels of compliance. About $8.2 million in rectifications for workers came mainly from employers who self-reported issues.
Why it matters: Mostly relevant to mining, not core trades. Tradies working on mine sites, such as electricians and fitters, may see workplace compliance checks and self-reporting expectations as regulators look at employer pay practices.