Minimum Pay

In Australia, there is a minimum rate of pay – this means that there are rules about how much an employer has to pay you.

The Fair Work Commission sets the minimum pay for individuals. A percentage of the minimum adult wage is used to determine rates of pay for workers under the age of 21.

The type of employment and work being performed may also impact a person’s minimal wage entitlement. This specifically applies to trainees and apprentices.

Information regarding your entitlement can be checked with the Fair Work Commission.

The Fair Work Commission sets the minimum pay for employees who work for national system employers. You probably work for a national system employer if your employer is a company.

If you work for a State system employer, the minimum wage is set by the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission. You probably work for a State system employer if your employer is a State government department, an individual (i.e. a sole trader), a partnership where the partners are individuals, or a not-for-profit organisation that doesn’t charge for any goods or services.

If you’re not sure if your employer is a national system employer or a State system employer, you can call Wageline on 1300 655 266, the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 or the Employment Law Centre on 1300 130 956 or 9227 0111 or visit their website.

A percentage of the minimum adult wage is used to determine rates of pay for workers under the age of 21.

The type of employment and work being performed may also determine your minimum rate of pay. This specifically applies to trainees and apprentices.

If you’re covered by an award, this will determine your minimum rate of pay. To find out if you’re covered by an award and what your minimum rate of pay is, you can call Wageline on 1300 655 266 or the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.

Information about your entitlements can also be checked with The Fair Work Commission for national system employees and with the WA Govenment Labour Relations for State system employees.