Wage Increases from 1 July 2025: What Our Mob Needs to Know
Wages Are Going Up — Are You Getting Paid Right?
From 1 July 2025, the Fair Work Commission has confirmed a 3.5% increase to the National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages.
That’s good news — but only if it’s actually showing up in your payslip.
For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers, especially those in retail, hospitality, cleaning, aged care or labour hire, this is the kind of news we don’t always get told about. But knowing your rights around pay? That’s power.
What’s Changing?
The National Minimum Wage will increase to $24.95 per hour (or $948.70 per week for full-time workers)
Minimum award wages (specific to industries and roles) will also rise by 3.5%
These changes kick in from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025
More info from the Fair Work Commission: Annual Wage Review 2024–2025
What You Need to Do
Find out what award you’re under
Awards are legal documents that set the minimum pay and conditions for your job. Don’t just rely on what your boss says — check for yourself.
Use the Award Finder on the Fair Work website.
Check your payslip
Make sure it’s showing the updated rate after 1 July. You should see a 3.5% increase if you’re on the minimum or award wage.
Learn about pay slip rights here.
Use the Pay Calculator
If you’re not sure what you should be getting paid, this tool breaks it down.
Keep your own records
Track your hours, days worked, and rates. Don’t wait for a fight to start collecting proof. Protect yourself from wage theft.
Why This Matters for Our Mob
Let’s be real — too many of our people are being underpaid, whether it’s because of dodgy employers, labour hire mob not doing the right thing, or just not being told our entitlements.
And for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers, underpayment doesn’t just affect one person — it affects families, communities, and cultural obligations. Every dollar counts when you’re carrying more than just yourself.
You Deserve Fair Pay — No Exceptions
This increase isn’t a favour — it’s your legal right. If you’re working hard, turning up, and doing your bit — you should be paid properly for it.
Whether you’re in a casual job, on probation, or working remote, this applies to you too. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Where to Get Help
If something feels off, speak up. There’s support available — and mob who’ve got your back.
Fair Work Ombudsman: 13 13 94 or fairwork.gov.au
Aboriginal Legal Services – for culturally safe advice
Your Union – if you’re a member, they can fight on your behalf
Final Word from Me
“You weren’t born to settle for less. Whether you’re working the floor, out bush, in a warehouse or behind a desk — you’re entitled to fair pay. Learn your rights, back yourself, and pass it on to the next person. That’s how we change things.”
— Eddie Solien
Founder, Indigenous Job Match
#KnowYourWorth #WageIncrease #FairPay #BlakWorkersDeserveMore
