3 per cent weekly minimum wage increase announced

Today the Fair Work Commission Minimum Wage Panel handed down the 2013-14 Annual Wage Review Decision to increase the modern minimum weekly wage by 3 per cent.

The 3 per cent increase will come into effect from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2014.

The increase applies to minimum wages for junior employees, employees to whom training arrangements apply, employees with a disability and to piece rates.

The national minimum wage order includes:

• A national minimum wage of $640.90 per week or $16.87 per hour based on a 38 hour week. This represents an increase of $18.70 per week or 50 cents per hour.
• A minimum wage of $640.90 per week or $16.87 per hour for employees with a disability whose productivity is not affected. For employees with a disability whose productivity is affected, an assessment under the supported wage system is required, subject to a minimum payment.
• Wages for award and agreement free junior employees will be based on the percentages for juniors in the Miscellaneous Award 2010.
• Award and agreement free apprentices and employees under the National Training Wage Schedule in the Miscellaneous Award 2010 will not receive less than the national minimum wage.
• A casual loading of 25 per cent for award/agreement free employees.