But some face a wait

AUSTRALIA’S lowest- paid workers are set to receive $13 more a week, but some will not get the rise until next year.

While unions are upset about the phasing in, they are happy it is happening.

Business groups say the change will make it harder for employers to offer jobs.

The minimum wage will rise by 1.75 per cent to $753.80 a week, the Fair Work Commission declared yesterday.

But the change will be phased in from July 1, with frontline services personnel who have continued working in the coronavirus pandemic the first to receive the boost.

The group includes staff in healthcare and social assistance, some teachers and child care workers.

The pay rise will be rolled out on November 1 to industries more adversely impacted by COVID-19 measures, including construction and manufacturing.

It will lastly be given to lowpaid workers in the industries most affected by the pandemic, including retail, accommodation and food services, arts and recreation, aviation and tourism, on February 1.

Commission president Justice Iain Ross said the moderate boost came amid a downturn in the economy driven by the pandemic.

There were also significant risks to the economy ahead, such as the threat of a second wave of coronavirus infections, Justice Ross said.

The ACTU fought for a 4 per cent rise, while business groups had argued the minimum wage should be frozen.

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the increase was an assault on small business and those on JobSeeker and JobKeeper.

The Australian Retailers Association is relieved its hardhit members will not have to stump up more for low paid workers until after the Christmas trading period.