The Full Bench of the Fair Work Commission has today handed down its decision in the Junior Rates application (AM2024/24).
Summary
From 1 Dec 2026 (phasing in until 1 Jul 2029 – provisionally) – 18, 19 and 20 year olds with six months service will be paid at the adult rate
Nothing to do now – but be aware change is coming
History
Back in 2024, The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) applied to vary junior rates of pay for employees aged 20 and under for the following modern awards:
Fast Food Industry Award 2020
General Retail Industry Award 2020
Pharmacy Industry Award 2020
Key Takeaways from Today
Adult junior employees (aged 18–20) will be paid 100% of the adult rate once they have completed 6 months’ service with their employer.
The current junior rate percentages will continue to apply for adult junior employees with less than 6 months’ service.
There will be no changes to junior rates for employees under 18 years of age.
Next steps and implementation
Exact dates of roll out to be confirmed – and we will let you know when this occurs.
Need Help?
If you have any questions related to this news release, or any other HR topic, please contact our HR team at info@explorepotential.com.au or call 0870951830