Aged care providers have supported the need for a substantial pay rise for age care workers and welcome today’s decision in the aged care work value case by the Fair Work Commission, says ACCPA CEO Tom Symondson.
The FWC has awarded an interim pay increase for direct care workers of 15% under Aged Care, SCHADS and Nurses Awards. The Commission indicated it would further consider the unions’ claim.
“We note the decision does not cover staff not involved in direct care such as kitchen, laundry, recreation activities and administrative staff, and we look forward to a further decision by the Commission which addresses their pay,” Mr Symondson said.
“ACCPA has been engaged with the work value case since late 2020 and we are delighted that the federal government has committed to fully fund the pay increase for aged care workers resulting from this case.
“We look forward to working with the relevant unions and the government on the implementation and timing of this important decision so that funding from the government flows at the same time as the pay increase.
“Higher pay for aged care workers is a key step towards achieving successful and long-lasting aged care reform as identified by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
“A better paid workforce means we can attract more workers into aged care and make our sector an employer of choice. This decision also helps recognise the incredible value that that aged care workers provide to older people.
“Most importantly, a better paid workforce means a higher quality of care for older Australians enabling them to live their best lives.
“This is a substantial decision and ACCPA will examine the detail and participate fully in further Commission conferences.”
