The Federal Government has announced that its share of the $2.8 billion in pay increases for the nation’s social and community sector workers (SACS) have begun to roll out throughout Australia.

 

Federal Minister for Community Services, Julie  Collins, said that the pay rises confirmed the Government’s commitment to the Fair Work Australia decision earlier this year.

 

“Throughout November, around 4,400 social and community services organisations across Australia will receive letters detailing the Australian Government’s offer towards the pay increases for their workers,” Ms Collins said.

 

“We are continuing to work with the sector and State and Territory Governments to ensure the first instalment of this important equal pay order is delivered on schedule next month.”

 

Under the FWA ruling, SACS employees will receive pay rises in nine instalments totaling between 23 and 45 per cent fro m December this year to 2020.

 

The Government established through legislation in October the Social and Community Services Pay Equity Special Account, locking in its $2.8 billion contribution over the next eight years.

 

“The Special Account will provide some of Australia’s lowest paid workers with peace of mind knowing the Australian Government’s contribution for their wage increases is secure throughout the implementation process,” Ms Collins said.