The Fair Work Commission has announced an increase to the National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages.
The increase applies from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2026.
National Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage applies to employees who aren’t covered by an award or enterprise agreement.
From 1 July 2026, the National Minimum Wage will be:
- $1004.90 per week, or
- $26.44 per hour.
Minimum award wages
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.
Effective date
The new National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages will both apply from the first full pay period 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.
Disclaimer: This does not purport to be comprehensive or to render legal advice. You should not act based on any information contained in this publication without first obtaining specific professional advice. Consult your legal advisor to determine if this applies to you.
