Minimum wage in
Australia

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What is the minimum wage in Australia per hour?

As of 2023, the national minimum wage for workers 21 years or older in Australia increased from the previous year to $23.23 per hour or $882.74 per 38 hour working week. This equals a total of $45,903 annually. This rate is before tax and benefit entitlements.

Are there regional variations in Australia minimum wage?

There are no regional variations when it comes to the Australian minimum wage statutory requirement. However, there are different rules if an employees demographic falls under modern award rules. Modern award rules apply to:

Wages for adults with different experience and qualification across roles
Rates for juniors, people with a registered disability, and employees during a training period

Casual employees attract a 25% casual loading on top of minimum wage.

How has minimum wage in Australia changed in the last 5 years and beyond?

Since 2018, the Australian minimum wage has increased by 12.99% from $719.20 per 38 hour working week. The largest increase was from 2022 to 2023, which saw an increase of 8.65%.

Australia – Minimum Wage Over the Years

Date	Min. wage, hourly rate (AUD)
2023	23,23
2022	21,38
2021	20,33
2020	19,84
2019	19,49
2018	18,93
2017	18,29
2016	17,70

How does the minimum wage in Australia compare to surrounding countries?

Australia and New Zealand have the highest national minimum wages in the Asia Pacific region. Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea make up the top 5 in this region but with national minimum wage that starts at 50% less than the Australian minimum wage.

Is there a different minimum wage for expats in Australia?

There is no difference to the right to minimum wage as a citizen, resident or foreign national working in Australia.

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FAQs

What is the difference between the average salary and the minimum wage in Australia?

Average salaries vary between employment level and industry. However, the Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS) found the median salary to be $92,029. This makes the difference in earning is around 74% more.

Is it possible to hire skilled employees close to the minimum wage in Australia?

It is not possible to hire skilled employees close to minimum wage in Australia. The minimum salary that a sponsored skilled foreign worker must be offered is $53,900 per year. This minimum also varies between industries and skills.

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Gary PaskyVP Software Development, PICS ITech (USA)

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