This July, millions of workers – including thousands of SDA members – are getting a real pay rise which keeps their wages ahead of inflation, thanks to the SDA and the union movement.
In June, the SDA and the union movement won a 3.5% increase to the minimum wage and Award wages in the Fair Work Commission’s Annual Wage Review.
This is the largest above-inflation wage increase since 2019.
After years of rising prices and interest rates, this pay rise delivers meaningful relief and a much-needed financial boost.
It will help workers and their families catch up and get ahead of the cost of living.
How the Fair Work Commission Annual Wage Review Works
Each year, the Fair Work Commission decides whether – and by how much – minimum wages should increase by. This impacts millions of workers’ pay including retail and fast food workers.
This decision is made based on the submissions of unions, employers, and the government.
Employers argued against meaningful wage increases, but the SDA and the union movement stood up and fought to lift your wages above inflation.
Our push for a real pay rise was also backed by the Federal Labor Government – which made an official submission to the Fair Work Commission in support of an above-inflation wage increase.
How does this wage increase impact me?
Workers covered by an Award or an SDA-negotiated Agreement linked to this decision will see their pay go up from the first full pay period on or after July 1.
The minimum rates of pay for retail and fast food workers will go up by 90 cents per hour. For a full-time worker, this works out to an extra $33 each week.
We believe that all workers must be paid a living wage.
The SDA is calling for a genuine living wage that allows all workers – no matter their age or industry – to be able to live comfortably.
All Australians workers should be paid enough that they can cover their bills, have access to secure housing, provide for themselves and feel financially secure.
When working people earn more, it also helps our local economies, our local businesses, and our communities.
That’s why the SDA will always back real and meaningful wage increases for our members.