Money may not be everything but getting paid a fair amount is an important part of any job. Information on this page includes:
> Minimum pay
> Getting paid
> Negotiating pay
> Superannuation
> Tax
> Links
Minimum pay
The Australian Fair Pay Commission (AFPC) sets the minimum wage rates. The AFPC will set wages across award classifications levels for:
- Juniors
- Apprentices and trainees
- Employees with disabilities
- Piece workers
It will also set loadings for casual workers.
The AFPC is required to set wages at or above the level of the current minimum wage. It's okay to be paid higher than the minimum rate set, but sometimes employers pay less. This is unlawful.
Things affecting how much you're paid
Things that affect how much you get paid include:
- Your industry
- Your age
- If you are a trainee or apprentice
- Whether the job is full time, part time, permanent or casual
- How much other people get paid to do the same job
- Your level of seniority, experience, qualifications, responsibilities and what you do
- The job market - e.g. the number of qualified people looking for the job
- Government awards, agreements or industrial laws relevant to the job
Just because you are young and eager to work, doesn't mean that an employer can take advantage of you and pay you less than you deserve. Before discussing pay with an employer, you can do some research to find out what you should be paid.
Check out our Getting paid the right amount page for more information on minimum wages.
Getting paid
When should I be paid?
Most employees are paid monthly, fortnightly or weekly. If you're covered by a federal award or agreement it may state the minimum pay periods. Before you start a job always ask - when will I be paid?
How should I be paid?
Usually Victorian employees are paid by electronic funds transfer (pay deposited electronically in your bank account), in cash or by cheque. An award or agreement often says how an employee must be paid. Employers have to pay the correct rate and cannot pay an employee 'in kind', i.e. they can't give you goods and services instead of wages.
Pay slips
You must receive a pay slip each time you are paid. In Victoria pay slips must show:
- Payment date
- Payment period
- Number of hours/days you worked in the period
- Your gross pay (before tax) and the amount you were actually paid
- All deductions made from your gross pay
- Any superannuation payments made on your behalf
If you're covered by a federal award, agreement or Australian Workplace Agreement (AWA), more information than the above must be included. If you have never received pay slips, they are incorrect or don't provide the above information use Wagenet's enquiry service (new window) or contact your union.
Negotiating pay
It can feel awkward to raise the subject of pay when applying for a job or asking for a raise. See our page on Negotiating pay for further information.
Superannuation
Superannuation (super) is calculated on your gross rate of pay. When your pay goes up, so should your employer's super contribution. If the super contribution is not being paid at the correct rate, or isn't paid at all, contact your super fund or the Super Helpline on 131 020. You'll find more info on our superannuation page.
Tax
A tax declaration gives your employer permission to take income tax from your wages and pay it to the tax office. Find out more on our tax page.
If an employer deducts money from your wages without your prior written consent, this is an illegal deduction. If you are concerned about any illegal deductions from your wages Wagenet's enquiry service (new window) or contact your union.
Links
Wagenet - Victorian wages and conditions
Information about wages and conditions of employment relevant to Victorian workers.
WorkChoices
Federal Government site explaining and promoting the new WorkChoices system. Download a copy of the new legislation and a copy of the WorkChoices booklet.
Office of the Employment Advocate - Employees
Information about Australian Workplace Agreements for employees.
Australian Industrial Relations Commission
Information about wages, conditions, termination and FAQs.
Australian Job Search - Job Outlook
Search for weekly earnings for a particular jobs and industries.
Centrelink - Indigenous Workers Wages Assistance Card
Wage Assistance is a wage subsidy program for employers who employ Indigenous job seekers.
Jobwatch Victoria
Victorian community legal centre specialising in employment law.
ACTU Worksite for Schools
The Australian Council of Trade Unions provide lots of introductory information about the world of work.
