The Australian Government has raised the National Minimum Wage and Minimum Award Wages effective July 1, 2026, with weekly rates increasing from $948.00 to $1,004.90 and hourly rates from $24.95 to $26.44. What compliance actions must employers take to avoid penalties for underpayment, and how do these changes affect different worker categories including trainees, apprentices, and entry-level employees?
AustraliaEmployment and HR
The Australian Government, through the Fair Work Ombudsman has increased the National Minimum Wage and Minimum Award Wages rates effective 1st July 2026. The Fair Work Commission reviews both the National Minimum Wage and minimum pay rates under awards (Annual wage review) every year. Most changes begin on the first full pay period on or after 1 July.
The increased and revised National Minimum Wage rates for the year 2026 have been introduced through the Annual Wage Review 2026 and the current rates are as follows:
| |
Previous Rates (2025) |
Current Rates (2026) |
| Weekly Rates |
$ 948.00 |
$ 1,004.90 |
| Hourly Rates |
$ 24.95 |
$ 26.44 |
The Minimum Wages rate doesn’t apply to employees who are bound by awards1 or enterprise agreements2 Minimum Award Wages apply to the employees bound by awards and the rates of minimum award wages for the year 2026 have increased by 4.75% pertaining to certain conditions as follows:
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