The SDA is calling for a 5% increase to the minimum and award wages in 2026, as part of the Fair Work Commission’s Annual Wage Review.
This is the case we put forward on behalf of retail and fast food workers calling for a pay rise that reflects the real cost of living, your job demands and workload and the need for a genuine living wage.
Our submission draws on economic data, as well as the experiences shared by thousands of SDA members.
Our member told us that rising costs, housing affordability pressures and day to day expenses have significantly impacted their financial situation and that their wages aren’t keeping up.
A 5% pay rise would keep ahead of the current rate of inflation and ensure that our members’ pay keeps up, rather than falling behind.
What is the Annual Wage Review and when will the decision be made?
Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews the minimum wage and award wages and decides how much it should increase by on July 1.
The Commission makes its decision based on the submissions it receives from unions, employers, and the government and factors in the current economic conditions.
It flows through to many Enterprise Agreements that have wage increases linked to this decision.
Who else is making submissions?
The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) has called for a 5% increase to the minimum wage and award wages which is supported by the SDA and unions across Australia. The Federal Labor Government has also made a submission calling for an above inflation pay rise.
But employer groups representing big business will also be making their submissions and year after year, they call for low increases that barely keep up with inflation – that’s why your continued support now is so important.
What happens now?
Now that submissions are in, the Fair Work Commission will consider them as well as the current economic circumstances in Australia before handing down its decision in late May or early June.
Pay rises don’t just fall from the sky. Union members win them by standing together and making their voices heard.