ACTU warns educators to check pay slips, and ensure wage rises are passed on

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) have warned workers, including those employed in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector, to check their next few pay slips, and ensure they are getting the correct pay rate, following on from award wage increases which came into effect on July 1. 

More than 2.2 million Australian workers are paid under the award wage system, and should therefore be receiving a 3 per cent pay increase in their first full pay period post July 1. 

The Sector prepared a breakdown of the award rate rise specific to those working in ECEC, which can be viewed here. 

The new national minimum wage has risen to $19.49 per hour. There are also higher rates under many industry awards and people working casually should note a loading applied to compensate for the lack of paid annual leave or personal leave.

ACTU Secretary, Sally McManus, said that the increase was significant because it comes “at a time when many workers are struggling to keep up with the cost of living.”

“If you’re one of the over 2.2 million people on an award, or whose pay is linked to an award, on the first full pay period after July 1, you should have a 3 percent raise. Make sure you check your pay.” she said in closing. 

To view a copy of the recently updated 2019 Children’s Services Award, including the 3 per cent increase, please see here.