Minimum wages increased July 2022

National award wage increases

The Fair Work Commission handed down a 5.2% increase to the National Minimum Wage effective from 1 July 2022.  What does that mean for you as an employer? Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• The national minimum wage now sits at $21.38 per hour (up from $20.33) or $812.60 per week (up $40 from $772.60) based on a 38-hour week for a full-time employee. This increase applies from an employee’s first full pay period on or after 01 Jul 2022.
• Casual employees entitled to the national minimum wage must receive a minimum $26.73 per hour, which includes their 25 per cent casual loading.
• The increases to award wages will happen in two stages, with most award wages increasing from 1 July 2022. For 10 awards in the aviation, hospitality and tourism industries, the increase will start on 1 October 2022.
• Businesses can use the Fairwork Pay & Conditions Tool to check the minimum pay rates that they need pay their staff.
• Employers also need to increase superannuation contributions to 10.5% effective 1 Jul 2022.

If employers or employees have any questions about pay rates, they can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance.