The Fair Work Commission has made further variations to awards in the aged care sector as part of the Aged Care Work Value Case which delivered a minimum 15% increase to aged care workers last year, The new variations involve wage increases, new classification structures and transfer of coverage of some aged care workers from one award to another.

Background

One of the key areas of reform for the Albanese Government has been that of wage equality.

It is nearly two years now since the Fair Work Commission was given the powers to conduct work value reviews for industries where the workforce is predominantly female such as aged care, nursing and midwifery, children’s services and early education.

The Aged Care Work Value Case is well advanced now – into Phase 3 of changes – which have seen significant wage increases and revisions of classification structures and award coverage over the past year.

This latest batch of changes continues that process.

Increases to award wages

In the Stage 3 decision of the Work value case – Aged care industry, an Expert Panel for pay equity in the Care and Community Sector determined that minimum wage increases will apply to:

• All workers covered by the Aged Care Award 2010, except Head chefs/cooks
• Home care workers providing services to an aged person covered by the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010

The increases will take effect from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 January 2025. The amount of the increase varies according to an employee’s award and classification.

A further increase will apply for some direct care workers from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 October 2025.

Coverage changes – nursing assistants

From 1 January 2025, nursing assistants who provide care services to aged persons in either the aged care industry or the home care sector under the Nurses Award 2020  will have their award changed to either the Aged Care Award 2010  or the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010.

They are also eligible for the wage increases referred to above

New classification structures for direct care workers

From 1 January 2025, direct care workers in the Aged Care Award 2010  and Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010, as well as nursing assistants whose coverage has changed to these awards, will have a new, separate 6-level classification structure setting out the qualifications and experience defined at each level.

How can we help?

If you need assistance with interpreting  awards and the effects of these changes in award provisions for your business, we can help.

Just give us on 0438 533 311 to arrange your free first consultation.