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Australia's workplace umpire hands down junior rates decision

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Junior rates in Austalia are unchanged for workers under 18 years of age

Australia's Fair Work Commission has published its decision on junior wages.

Based on an initial review of the decision, the Commission has retained the original determination:

  • Junior rates are unchanged for workers under 18 years of age;
  • Junior rates remain unchanged for workers aged 18 to 20 years during their first six months with an employer; and
  • Junior rates for workers aged 18 to 20 years who have worked more than six months with their employer will be phased out by  July 1 2029.

The transitional arrangements adopted by the Commission are those previously agreed between the PGA and the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees' Association, with a 5 percent increase in December 2026 followed by annual 10 percent increases from July 1 each year until the relevant rates reach 100 percent.

In a separate decision, the Commission rejected an application to vary the vehicle allowance provisions in the Pharmacy Industry Award.

The PGA is reviewing both decisions and will provide its members with further information in due course.



Australasian Pharmacy

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