In short: Fair Work compliance for a small business is built like a house. The Fair Work Act is the foundation, the National Employment Standards (NES) are the slab, Modern Awards are the frame, and your contracts are the fit-out. Most owners polish the fit-out — yet the real risk sits in the structure underneath. If you […]
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Each year, the Fair Work Commission hands down its Annual Wage Review — and each year, it ripples through payroll systems, budgets and workforce planning across the country. The 2026 decision is now in, and it carries a clear message: protect the lowest-paid workers from falling further behind, without overcorrecting in an uncertain economy. Here’s what
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Junior rates are changing for adult junior employees in retail, fast food and pharmacy.
The Fair Work Commission has decided that 18–20 year olds who have more than six months’ service will, over time, move to the full adult rate of pay. While there are no immediate changes, the shift is significant and will be phased in gradually from December 2026, with full implementation expected by July 2029.
For employers who rely on younger workers, this decision has important implications for wage costs, rostering and long‑term workforce planning, making early awareness and preparation essential.
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From 1 January 2025, new wage laws in Australia will enforce strict penalties for underpayment of wages, including imprisonment and significant fines. These laws aim to eliminate intentional underpayment of wages, penalty rates, and allowances. Employers may face: What Is the Wage Compliance Code? The Wage Compliance Code helps small businesses (under 15 employees) avoid
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The Fair Work Commission this morning handed down its annual National Minimum Wage decision. The National Minimum Wage Case is the yearly review of Minimum and Award wages to determine if, and to what level wages should be increased. The National Wage Case Decision Today, the Fair Work Commission has directed that the National Minimum
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The Fair Work Commission has today handed down its yearly National Wage Decision. Award Wages are to increase by 1.75% This decision was slightly delayed this year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. National Minimum Wage increases by 1.75% In its decision, the Commission has decided to increase the National Minimum wage by 1.75% to $19.84
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