29 June 2015 

The Fair Work Ombudsman today reminded employers about an increase in the minimum wage from Wednesday.

After July 1, the new national minimum wage for a full-time adult will be $17.29 an hour, or $656.90 a week.

The Fair Work Ombudsman is encouraging employers to use its online pay tools to check new pay rates applicable to their workplace.

These can be accessed at www.fairwork.gov.au/paycalculator.

“In our experience, a common cause of underpayment of wages is the failure by employers to pass on annual wage increases,” says Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James.

“Our Online tools and resources can assist employers to determine their applicable Modern Award, as well as classification and pay rates, including base pay rates, allowances, overtime and penalty rates.”

Ms James says the Fair Work Ombudsman provides practical advice that is easy to access, understand and apply in support of encouraging compliant, productive and inclusive Australian workplaces.

“Our focus is on educating employers about their obligations and assisting them to put processes in place to ensure that any errors we find don't occur again,” she said.

Ms James says the overwhelming majority of employers want to do the right thing by their employees and get it right when it comes to workplace laws.

Employers seeking advice and assistance can also contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94. 

Small businesses can now access a dedicated Small Business Helpline where they will receive priority service from the Agency’s award-winning Fair Work Infoline advisers.

Follow Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James on Twitter @NatJamesFWO , the Fair Work Ombudsman @fairwork_gov_au or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/fairwork.gov.au .

Sign up to receive the Fair Work Ombudsman’s media releases direct to your email inbox at www.fairwork.gov.au/mediareleases.

Media inquiries:

Nicci de Ryk, Senior Media Adviser
Mobile: 0466 522 004
nicci.deryk@fwo.gov.au