The Fair Work Commission recently decided to increase penalty rates for weekend work performed by casual employees under the Hair and Beauty Award.

Casual weekend penalty rates will increase in 5 instalments starting from 31 January 2022 and finishing on 31 December 2023. From 3 November 2021 to 30 January 2022, casuals will continue to be paid their usual weekend penalty rate.

The penalty rate applying to ordinary hours worked on Saturdays inclusive of the casual loading is:

• From 3 November 2021: 133%
• From 31 January 2022: 138%
• From 30 April 2022: 143%
• From 31 December 2022: 148%
• From 30 April 2023: 153%
• From 31 December 2023: 158%

The penalty rate applying to ordinary hours and overtime hours worked on a Sunday inclusive of the casual loading is:

• From 3 November 2021: 200%
• From 31 January 2022: 205%
• From 30 April 2022: 210%
• From 31 December 2022: 215%
• From 30 April 2023: 220%
• From 31 December 2023: 225%

It should also be noted that award rates in the Hair and Beauty Award 2020 have been increased by 2.5% effective from 1 November 2021 in line with this year’s Annual Wage Review decision by the Fair Work Commission. This was delayed from 1 July 2021 due to the impact of COVID.

Further increases in award rates as a result of Annual Wage Reviews can be expected to apply from 1 July each year in line with the provisions of the Fair Work Act.

If you have any queries, please contact us on 0421 592 541 or at enquiries@ridgelinehr.com.au.