Minimum Wage Increase 5.2% from July 1

June 15, 2022

On 15 June 2022, the Fiar Work Commission (FWC) anncouned a $40 increase to the national minimum wage; this amounts to a 5.2% increase.

The Fair Work Commission decided to increase modern award minimum wages by 4.6% subject to a minimum increase for adult award classifications of $40 per week. 


These increases will generally take effect from 1 July 2022. However, the FWC determined that a delay in the operative date was warranted for modern awards in the aviation, tourism and hospitality sectors. This means that the wage increases will operate from 1 October 2022 for the following awards:


Aircraft Cabin Crew Award 2020

Airline Operations-Ground Staff Award 2020

Air Pilots Award 2020

Airport Employees Award 2020

Airservices Australia Enterprise Award 2016

Alpine Resorts Award 2020

Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020

Marine Tourism and Charter Vessels Award 2020

Registered and Licensed Clubs Award 2020

Restaurant Industry Award 2020


If you have employees who are covered by a Modern Award, review their salaries/wages to ensure they are being paid at least equal to the new minimum award rate. You are not obliged to increase an employee’s salary or wage if they are being paid in excess of the award minimum wage.


Some penalty rates and allowances in Modern Awards are linked to the minimum wage rate so employers should check to see what allowances/penalty rates need to be increased based on the minimum wage increase.


Should you wish to discuss your specific obligations as a result of the minimum wage increase or require any advice on a workplace issue please contact us for advice. 


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