Award Changes & Updates - 2025

There have been a number of updates to modern award pay guides and minimum wages. Some of these changes are backdated by the Fair Work Commission, so it is important to check the relevant award or pay guide for full details and to make sure payroll is aligned.

Below is a summary of the key changes affecting different industries.

Aged Care Award (MA000018): From 1 July 2025 the pay guide was updated for adult gardening and landscaping apprentices who started after 1 January 2014, covering both full time and part time classifications. From 1 October 2025 minimum wages will increase for direct care employees under this award.

SCHADS Award (MA000100): From 1 October 2025 minimum wages will increase for home care employees working in aged care.

Nurses Award (MA000034): From 1 October 2025 minimum wages will increase for enrolled nurses, registered nurses and student enrolled nurses working in aged care.

Live Performance Award (MA000081): From 1 July and 21 July 2025 the pay guides were updated to note that touring production and support staff rates for sound and lighting include the overtime and penalty allowance, and to update the Sunday or public holiday travel allowance.

Ports, Harbours and Enclosed Water Vessels Award (MA000052): From 1 July 2025 allowance labels were adjusted for loading and unloading vessels transporting passengers and cargo between the mainland and island resorts (with separate provisions for weeks of five days or less and for more than five days). Updates also applied to work starting, finishing or call outs between 11 pm and 6 am where transport is not provided, including use of an employee’s own vehicle.

Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Associated Industries Award (MA000017): From 1 July 2025 the pay guide changed first year apprentice rates for employees under 17 who started after 1 January 2014, with separate settings depending on whether Year 12 was completed.

Food, Beverage and Tobacco Manufacturing Award (MA000073): From 1 July 2025 allowances were amended for working away from the usual workplace, including fares reimbursement for travel when not staying away, temporary transfers, and permanent transfers with or without a concurrent home purchase.