The Commission encourages written submissions to its wage reviews from stakeholders and the wider Australian community. Obtaining written submissions from a broad cross-section of Australians ensures the Commission is informed about the impact of its decisions, current wage issues and areas for future research. The Commission articulates its commitment in this area through its Submission Charter.
Q&As - submissions process
Answers to frequently asked questions about the submission process are provide below:
What is the purpose of submissions?
Submissions received by the Australian Fair Pay Commission are one source of information the Commission considers when undertaking minimum wage reviews. Other sources include research and consultations.
Who can make a submission?
Anyone can make a submission. The Commission encourages submissions from a wide range of individuals and organisations.
What content can be included in a submission?
Submissions may contain facts, arguments, opinions and/or recommendations. Where possible, submissions should provide evidence to support the views put forward.
Submissions do not need to address all criteria or respond to all questions. In addition, submissions need not be lengthy. The Commission is interested in receiving a wide range of views on issues relevant to minimum wages.
What is the format for submissions?
The Commission accepts submissions in hard copy or electronic format. Submissions may take the form of a short letter, email or a more substantial structured document.
Submissions can also be made through this website using the online submission form or sent as an email attachment. The preferred formats for electronic submissions are Microsoft Word (MS Word) or Portable Document Format (PDF).
While there is no prescribed layout or length for submissions, a template has been provided that may assist in creating a structure for your submission. The Submission template and Guide to making a submission can be downloaded from this web site.
Will my submission be made public?
The Commission has adopted a policy of posting submissions on its website. If you do not wish for this to occur you must indicate this by marking your submission 'confidential'. Non-confidential submissions are posted on the Commission’s website as soon as is practicable after the clsoing date.
Relevant parts or quotes from non-confidential submissions may also be included within the Commission’s published decision documents. Words quoted will be reproduced verbatim, but the Commission reserves the right to delete or summarise some words, to clarify meaning. In quoting submissions, it is Commission policy to append the word ‘sic’ to typographical or grammatical errors, to avoid confusion.
The Commission may partially or wholly exclude publication of submissions where they:
- are outside the remit of the Commission’s functions, as defined by the legislation;
- are deemed to be offensive or abusive;
- are deemed to be vexatious or defamatory; or
- could identify an individual.
A submitter can, upon reasonable request, have his or her submission withdrawn from public view.
For more information see the Commission's Privacy statement.
How do I make a submission?
You can lodge a submission online, by email to submissions@fairpay.gov.au, fax (03) 9620 4868, or post to Locked Bag 35003, Collins Street West, MELBOURNE VIC 8007
When can submissions be lodged?
The Commission invites submissions to its reviews and provides specific opening and closing dates for lodging submissions. In general, submissions must be received by close of business on the closing day.
Where can I get more information?
To find out more about making a submission, call 1300 139 699.