The Australian federal government is advocating for a substantial wage increase for the country’s lowest paid workers to alleviate cost of living pressures, following a recommendation to the Fair Work Commission. Since 2022, the minimum wage has risen by $143 weekly, currently set at $24.10 per hour, benefiting around three million workers, including cleaners and retail staff. The Australian Council of Trade Unions is pushing for a 4.5% increase, which would raise the minimum wage to $25.18, effective from July 1, contingent on the Commission’s decision in June.
