The SDA has welcomed the Fair Work Commission’s decision to award a 4.75% increase to award wages, delivering a significant pay rise for millions of Australian workers.
Each year, the SDA appears before the Fair Work Commission as part of the Annual Wage Review, advocating for higher wages for retail, fast food and warehouse workers. This year, we supported the Australian Council of Trade Unions’ (ACTU) claim for a substantial increase to help workers keep pace with rising living costs.
The 4.75% increase is a strong outcome and an important win for workers. It means more money in the pockets of SDA members and other award-reliant workers at a time when many households continue to face pressure from housing, grocery, energy and other everyday costs.
Standing up for workers
The SDA’s submission to the Fair Work Commission drew on economic data and the experiences of members across the country. SDA Members shared how rising living costs and housing expenses were affecting their ability to make ends meet, save money and plan for the future.
These stories helped demonstrate the real challenges faced by workers and reinforced the need for a meaningful wage increase.
Housing remains a major challenge
Across retail, fast food and warehousing, workers continue to face significant housing affordability pressures. In the SDA’s recent housing survey, more than 2,000 members shared their experiences.
The survey found that 60% expected to spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs, while 36% expected to spend more than half their income on housing. More than half of respondents were renting, and many reported concerns about their ability to achieve long-term housing goals.
The results highlighted the importance of ensuring wages continue to grow so workers can better manage the cost of housing and other essential expenses.
Workers made their voices heard
Throughout the Annual Wage Review process, SDA members shared their experiences of balancing work, study, family responsibilities and rising costs.
These stories helped demonstrate why workers deserve fair wage increases that recognise their contribution to the economy and their workplaces.
The Commission’s decision to grant a 4.75% increase is recognition that workers need and deserve a meaningful pay rise.
A win achieved by union action
Employer lobby groups argued for lower wage increases during the review process, with many proposing rises below the amount ultimately awarded by the Fair Work Commission.
The 4.75% increase shows the value of workers standing together through their union. Pay rises of this size are not automatic, they are achieved when workers join their union and make their voices heard.
This latest increase builds on recent gains secured by unions, including increases of 5.75% in 2023, 3.75% in 2024 and 3.5% in 2025.
Stronger together
While cost of living pressures remain a challenge for many workers, the 4.75% wage increase is a positive step forward and a significant win for SDA members.
The SDA will continue fighting for fair wages, secure jobs and better conditions for retail, fast food and warehouse workers. This result demonstrates what can be achieved when workers stand together and have a strong union working on their behalf.
