The Australian Fair Pay Commission (AFPC) is calling for submissions about fair pay for its consideration in the lead-up to its historic minimum wage determination.
The AFPC was established as an independent statutory body to set and adjust the federal minimum wage, replacing the wage-setting role of the Industrial Relations Commission.
The AFPC will also set and adjust classification rates and casual loadings, the minimum wage for juniors, trainees and apprentices, piece workers and people with disabilities.
AFPC Chair Professor Ian Harper said submissions were sought from interested groups and individuals who wanted to contribute to a “historic process”.
“This is the first time members of the public have been invited to contribute to the process of setting or adjusting the minimum wage, and the Commission is determined to offer the opportunity to every Australian to have their say,” Professor Harper said.
The WorkChoices 2005 Act instructs the AFPC to consult with individuals and stakeholders in setting the minimum wage.
“We take very seriously our role in setting the federal minimum wage. We have every intention of setting the minimum wage with the fullest understanding of the impact it will have on Australians,” Professor Harper added.
“We’ll also be holding stakeholder and public consultation sessions across the nation.
“Separately, we’ll commission relevant economic and social research to help inform a historic decision that will affect a great many Australians, as well as business and industry.”
Professor Harper encouraged the community and interested groups to focus on the main issues the Commission would consider when setting the minimum wage:
- The capacity for the unemployed and low paid to obtain and remain in employment;
- Employment and competitiveness across Australia;
- Providing a safety net for the low paid; and
- Providing minimum wages for junior employees, those in training, and employees with a disability to ensure they are competitive in the labour market.
The Commission will release its minimum wage determination in Spring 2006.
Submissions must be received by Friday, 28 July, 2006.