Aged care workers get big pay bump in 'win for dignity'
· Aged-care workers celebrated with streamers and tears after the Fair Work Commission granted them a significant pay rise, aiming to provide dignity in caring for older Australians.
· The decision will increase wages for about 400,000 workers by up to 28%, addressing years of advocacy by the Health Services Union.
· The commission acknowledged the value of direct-care employees with a 15% interim pay rise in 2022, with further increases now secured across the sector.
· The landmark decision was praised by union leaders and industry bodies, emphasising the importance of ensuring carers can work without financial hardship.
· The federal government has committed to supporting the pay rise, recognizing its impact on improving aged care services for older Australians.