Posted on 9 Jun 2026
The National Minimum Wage is increasing by 4.75%, bringing the new rate to $26.44 per hour, or $1,005 per week. Make sure you’re ready to apply the updated pay rates from your first full pay period in July.
Most employees are covered by an award. Awards are legal documents that outline minimum pay rates and conditions of employment in an industry or occupation.
The Commission has announced a 4.75% increase to minimum wages, provided that:
- the lowest rate in any award that applies to ongoing employment must be at least $1004.90 per week or $26.44 per hour
- any entry-level rate that applies to the first 6 months (or less) of employment must be at least $978.10 per week or $25.74 per hour.
This increase will apply from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2026. This means if your weekly pay period starts on Wednesday, the new rates will apply from Wednesday 1 July 2026.
More can be found here: Minimum wages increase from 1 July 2026 - Fair Work Ombudsman
