The Minimum Wage in Australia

Fair pay for your work – it’s not just a nice idea, it’s your right.

Every worker in Australia deserves to earn enough to live a decent life. That’s exactly why we have a minimum wage, and it’s union members who’ve fought hard to make sure it keeps up with the cost of living.

What’s the minimum wage right now?

As of 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is $24.95 per hour (or $948 per week for employees full-time work).

Does the minimum wage ever go up?

Yes! Every year, actually.

The Fair Work Commission reviews the minimum wage around April to June, and any increase takes effect from 1 July. This is called the Annual Wage Review.

Here’s the cool part: unions are the main reason Australia has one of the highest minimum wages in the world. Every year, unions submit a claim for a fair increase that helps keep up with rising costs.

The 2026 decision has just been announced! The minimum wage will increase to $26.44 per hour on 1 July 2026.

Can my employer pay me less than minimum wage?

No – that’s illegal.

There are only a few exceptions:

• Apprentices and trainees
• Workers under 21 in some industries (more on this below)
• People on the Supported Wage System

If your employer is deliberately underpaying you (wage theft), they can face severe fines and for the most serious cases, a prison sentence. If you think something’s wrong with your pay, talk to your employer and reach out to a union for help.

Important: Even if you’re getting minimum wage, you might be entitled to more. Things like overtime, penalty rates, leave loading, and long service leave can all add to your pay. Always check your payslip!

What about young workers under 21?

If you’re under 21, your minimum wage is calculated as a percentage of the National Minimum Wage.

But here’s something important: if your workplace has an award or Enterprise Agreement (EA), you might be entitled to a higher percentage – sometimes even 100% of the full minimum wage contained in that instrument. You should also check the terms of your employment contract, which can pay above (but not below) the minimum wage.

And if you’re a casual worker, don’t forget you get at least 25% casual loading on top of your minimum wage. This extra pay makes up for the fact that casuals don’t get paid leave.

What if I’m casual, on commission, or doing piecework?

Casual employees: You get at least 25% loading on top of your base rate because you don’t get paid leave entitlements.

Commission or piece rates: Even if you’re paid by how much you sell or produce rather than hours worked, your employer must still ensure you’re earning at least minimum wage equivalent.

What about apprentices and traineeships?

Different minimum wages apply if you’re in a registered apprenticeship or traineeship. Your rate depends on:

• What job you’re doing
• How old you are
• How far along you are in your training
• Your skill level

Want to earn more than minimum wage?

Join your union. That’s the first and most important step.

Union members earn an average of $251 more per week than non-members. That’s over $13,000 extra per year!

This happens because:

• Workplaces with lots of union members generally have higher pay rates
• Unions negotiate Enterprise Agreements that set wages higher than the minimum wage
• Union-backed agreements consistently deliver higher wages than non-union agreements

Joining your union doesn’t mean your pay automatically jumps overnight. But it does mean you’re part of a movement that fights for better wages, better conditions, and a fairer workplace for everyone.

Because together, we’re stronger.

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