The Fair Work Commission has made a decision on the timing of the implementation on a long running case for entry level positions.
This “Review of C14 and C13 Rates in Modern Awards” case resulted in all entry level classifications being considered against the National Minimum Wage. The Full Bench of the FWC determined that the lowest classification rate in any modern award applicable to ongoing employment should be at least the C13 rate (or its equivalent).
This ensures that these lowest classifications receive at least the National Minimum Wage ($915.90 per week) from January 2025.
For the electrical award this means that the Electrical Worker Grade 1 rate has received an adjustment from a base rate $903.90 per week to $915.90 per week.
While it is the case that the industry allowance is also payable to this classification the Commission considered that an allowance payable should not be used to offset the base rate being under the National Minimum Wage.
The flow on impact of this increase is that adult apprentices, in their 2nd, 3rd and 4th year, will receive an increase in their wage. These adult apprentice rates are calculated with reference to Electrical Work Grade 1 rate of pay.
This means the new adult apprentices, 2nd, 3rd and 4th year rate of pay will be $26.42 per hour. That is the all-purpose rate of pay inclusive of the tool, industry and licence allowance amounts.
As it is an increase in the base rate of pay there is no change to the all-purpose allowances that are included in the rate.
The increase will take effect from the first full pay period on or after 1 January 2025 and minimum rates for these classifications should be reviewed.
If you have any questions please contact MEA’s Workplace Relations Team.
