Government takes next step in delivering historic pay rises
The Australian Government has taken the next step in meeting its commitment to deliver historic equal pay rises to eligible social and community sector workers.
The Minister for Community Services, Julie Collins, today announced the Australian Government’s offers as part of its $2.8 billion share of the increases have begun going out to social and community services organisations.
“Throughout November, around 4,400 social and community services organisations across Australia will receive letters detailing the Australian Government’s offer towards the pay increases for their workers,” Ms Collins said.
“The Australian Government is delivering on its commitment to the landmark Fair Work Australia decision.
“We are continuing to work with the sector and State and Territory Governments to ensure the first instalment of this important equal pay order is delivered on schedule next month,” Ms Collins said.
Under the terms of the FWA order, SACS workers are receiving pay rises in nine instalments totalling between 23 and 45 per cent from December this year to 2020.
The Government established through legislation in October the Social and Community Services Pay Equity Special Account, locking in its $2.8 billion contribution over the next eight years.
“The Special Account will provide some of Australia’s lowest paid workers with peace of mind knowing the Australian Government’s contribution for their wage increases is secure throughout the implementation process,” Ms Collins said.
“Workers in the SACS sector have challenging jobs, helping some of the most vulnerable in our community.
“Around 120,000 of the 150,000 workers covered by the FWA decision are women and for too long their work has been undervalued simply because they are women.”
The Government’s $2.8 billion contribution is fully funded and accounted for in the Budget.
The latest information on the implementation process is available through the dedicated website: www.fahcsia.gov.au/node/10776