These increases will start on different dates:
- 1 July 2020: for workers in frontline and essential services and anyone not covered by an award
- 1 November 2020: for those covered by manufacturing and construction awards
- 1 February 2021: employees working in accommodation, food, retail, tourism, and aviation
Most employees are covered by an award. If you’re not sure which award applies, use the Find my award online tool.
The new national minimum wage will be $753.80 per week or $19.84 per hour ($24.80 per hour for casuals). Depending on where you work, this applies from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2020.
Redfern Legal Centre welcomes this boost in wages to support low-income workers at this difficult time. We urge all employees to check that you are being paid correctly and if you are a frontline worker or in essential services, or award free, make sure that your employer applies the increase to your first pay in the new financial year.
If you think you are being underpaid, contact Redfern Legal Centre's employment law service for advice and referrals (www.rlc.org.au/contact). If you are an international student, contact RLC's International Student Legal Service NSW here. If you are a migrant worker or temporary visa holder, contact the Employment Rights Legal Service or by phoning 02 9698 7277
Further info
The Commission has announced a 1.75% increase to minimum wages (Fair Work Ombudsman, 19 June 2020)
