Dear Students,

We are pleased to present you important information about workplace rights, such as the new pay rates, and how the FWO can assist international students to ensure workplace compliance. In particular, this package consists of:

Important information about the new pay rates in effect from 01 July 2018  - Check the new 1 July pay rates on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website! 

On 1 June 2018, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) announced a 3.5% increase to base rates of pay, with the new national minimum wage is set at $18.93 per hour for temporary and permanent workers and $23.66 for casual workers. The new pay rates apply from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 July 2018. So, if your pay week is from Monday to Sunday, the new rates take effect on Monday 2 July.

You can find the new rates in our Pay Calculator and Pay Guides.

On 1 July 2018, Sunday penalty rates in the Fast Food, Hospitality, Pharmacy and Retail Awards also changed, following a Fair Work Commission decision last year. Visit our Penalty rates changes 2017 page for more information.

The increase only applies to employees that get their pay rates from:

* the national minimum wage

* a modern award or

* a registered agreement (in some cases).

The increase won’t affect employees who are already getting paid more than the new minimum wages. Visit the Fair Work Ombudsman's website for more information on who the increase applies to.

International students have the same workplace rights as all other workers in Australia including minimum pay rates they have to be paid based on the work they do.

Contact the Fair Work Ombudsman Info-line on 13 13 94 (13 14 50 for translating and interpreting service). Many people find it easier to submit an online enquiry through the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website.

Stay informed! Stay Alert! and most importantly KNOW YOUR WORKING RIGHTS!

Regards,

Careers and Employment Service Team