More than 200,000 aged care workers are seeking a pay rise of 25% through a landmark work value case being launched today by the Health Services Union (HSU).
The union’s claim, to be filed in the Fair Work Commission, argues that aged care workers’ current pay does not accurately reflect their skills or the changing nature of their work.
If the union’s case is successful, all aged care workers – including personal carers, activities officers, catering, cleaning and administration workers – would receive a pay rise of at least $5 an hour.
The case follows a recommendation heard at the recently concluded Aged Care Royal Commission to seek higher minimum wages in the sector, arguing that job conditions and skill justified a pay rise.
The HSU is seeking a pay rise that would see a qualified personal carer receive $28.86 per hour, up from $23. The starting rate for a carer is currently $21.96 per hour, just $2 more than the Australian minimum wage.
HSU president, Gerard Hayes, said the aged care sector has “relied for too long on the goodwill of an underpaid and insecure workforce of women”.
“Aged care workers are skilled. They provide care and support to our most vulnerable, to residents enduring episodes of sadness and at times anger. They should be recognised and paid for their skills,” he said.
