Wage and super changes now active: what you need to know
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has confirmed a 3.5% increase to minimum award wages, effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025. Importantly, the updated wage tables for the Horticulture Award 2020 and other relevant modern awards have now been released.
This is a timely reminder to check your payroll and ensure you’re compliant with the new rates.
Key Changes
National Minimum Wage: Increased to $948.00 per week or $24.95 per hour.
Award Wages: Horticulture Award rates have risen by 3.5%, including increases to minimum hourly rates, piece rates, and applicable allowances.
Superannuation Guarantee: Increased by 0.5%, now sitting at 12% from 1 July 2025.
The updated rates are now available directly through Fair Work and should be applied from the first full pay cycle on or after 1 July 2025.
Practical steps for employers
Implement updated rates immediately
The new rates apply from your first full pay period on or after 1 July. Check that your payroll system has been updated to reflect these changes.Review piecework arrangements
If you engage workers on a piece rate, ensure you meet the minimum hourly safety net requirements introduced in recent years. These also increase with the new Award rates.Recalculate allowances
Some allowances, such as those for travel, meals, or leading hands, have also increased. Check the Fair Work pay guide for current amounts.Audit your compliance
With increased scrutiny on wage compliance in agriculture, now is the time to review your payroll records, agreements, and rostering practices to ensure they align with the new requirements.Book a compliance check-in
If you pay a salary or flat rate that wraps in overtime or allowances and would like these checked or simply want to ensure you have interpreted the new rates correctly, contact the QFVG HR/IR Support line to find out more – 07 3620 3844 or wrteam@qfvg.com.au
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