The Fair Work Ombudsman is reminding employers that the national minimum wage has increased this week by 2.5 per cent.
That increase applies from the first full pay period starting on or after July 1.
Employees covered by awards – such as those applicable to road transport workers – also have their base rates increased by 2.5 per cent.
Casual employees that the national minimum wage applies to must receive a minimum $25.41 per hour including their 25 per cent casual loading.
For a detailed breakdown of what the new rates mean for those under the Road Transport (Long Distance Operations) Award, click here. (NB: Grade 6 is for a single and Grade 8 is for B-double and others up to 94t).
In a recent newsletter to its members the Queensland Trucking Association reminds employers that those who have Workplace Agreements in place will need to ensure that their agreement rates meet, or exceed, the new minimum award rates and, if the agreement pay increases are linked to the panel’s decision, the pay rates will need to be adjusted within the Workplace Agreement accordingly.
“The increases can be absorbed into any amounts now being paid over and above the relevant minimum rates. However, be aware the Fair Work Ombudsman makes it clear that over award pay-rates can NOT off-set other award entitlements (e.g. penalties or loadings) unless there is a formal agreement in place. Rates for juniors, trainees and apprentices will also be adjusted, as usual, on a proportionate basis,” said the QTA.
Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said workplaces are expected to ensure all their employees are paid at least the relevant minimum wage, in line with the Fair Work Commission’s decision.
“The Fair Work Ombudsman has free online tools available to help employers comply with their workplace obligations, which have been updated to reflect the new pay rates,” Parker said.
“We urge all businesses to use our Pay and Conditions Tool to check the lawful minimum rates they need to pay their staff, or to contact us directly for free assistance.
“We encourage workers to use the Pay and Conditions Tool to check their rates of pay. If workers are unsure which award applies to them, they can use our Find my award tool.
“If employers and employees have any queries or concerns about pay rates, they can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance.”