The Albanese Labor Government has announced a fourth pay rise for aged care workers, recognising the vital role they play in supporting older Australians. This boost is part of a record $17.7 billion investment to lift wages across the sector and ensure aged care staff are properly valued for the essential care they provide.
What the Pay Rise Means
From today, aged care workers across the country will see a significant increase in their weekly wages:
- Registered Nurses (Level 2, Pay Point 3 – the most common level) will receive an extra $60.20 per week. Combined with earlier increases, they will be more than $28,000 better off per year under the Albanese Government.
- Enrolled Nurses (Level 2) will take home an additional $62.40 per week.
- Personal Care Workers (Level 3) will receive an extra $39.50 per week.
Another round of wage increases is set to roll out on 1 August next year, further boosting the pay of registered and enrolled nurses.
Backing Workers and Closing the Gender Pay Gap
The government’s investment supports the Fair Work Commission’s decision to raise award wages for more than 400,000 aged care workers. Importantly, it also addresses the historical gender-based undervaluation of work in aged care, where women make up the majority of the workforce.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Amanda Rishworth highlighted that the reforms are also helping reduce Australia’s gender pay gap, which is now at its equal lowest level on record.
“Reducing the gender pay gap was one of the key reasons the government funded the 15 per cent pay increase for aged care carers,” Minister Rishworth said.
A Stronger Economy Through Fairer Wages
Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the pay rise is good for workers, the economy, and communities across Australia.
“Aged care workers do an incredible job and they deserve every dollar of this pay rise. This investment recognises their big contribution and will encourage more young Australians to pursue a rewarding career in aged care,” he said.
Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae added that after years of neglect, the sector is finally being rebuilt.
“Aged care workers deserve better pay and more recognition for the meaningful work they do. This latest pay rise builds on our commitment to close the gender pay gap and get wages moving again.”
Supporting Cost of Living and Fair Work
Since coming to office, the Albanese Government has overseen seven consecutive quarters of real wages growth, helping Australians earn more and keep more of what they earn.
The aged care wage increases are another step towards ensuring secure, fair pay for workers who deliver compassion, safety, and dignity to older Australians.
For more details, visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website: Better and fairer wages for aged care workers.
