The Labor Government announced that the new Federal Minimum Wage has been set at $543.78 per week or $14.31 per hour from its previous level of $522.12 per week or $13.74 per hour.
Federal Member for Chifley Roger Price said: “Australia’s most vulnerable employees will benefit from this increase including young people, students, casual employees and those who are employed in retail, accommodation, cafes, restaurants and health and community services.”
The decision also increases adult rates of pay in Australian Pay and Classification Scales by approximately $21.66 per week.
The new rates were determined by the Australian Fair Pay Commission earlier this year.
From 1 January 2010, under the Government’s workplace relations system, minimum wages will be set by a new independent body, the Fair Work Australia Minimum Wage Panel.
“This increase will alleviate some of the pressure low-paid Australians are dealing with due to the current economic situation,” Mr. Price concluded.
For more information on the wage increase call the Workplace Info Line on 1300 363 264 or visit http://www.workplace.gov.au.
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