The ACTU has today welcomed the Federal Government’s support for wage rises for workers in aged care and early childhood education, as well as funding for superannuation for workers on paid parental leave.
Government action is a key lever in positive wage growth and a critical part of managing cost-of living pressures.
Quotes attributable to ACTU President Michele O’Neil:
“Australian workers had ten years of weak wage growth and their real wages stagnated under the last Government.
“The Labor Government was elected to get wages moving, and we have seen wages start to increase. We know that the Federal Budget plays a big role in setting the economic environment for wages to grow.
“The reports that the 2024 Budget will make provisions for pay rises in the aged care and early childhood education sectors are welcomed, and will deliver cost-of-living support for those workers who need it most.
“The commitment in the Budget to funding superannuation on paid parental leave is also much needed, and very welcomed.
“The aged care and early learning sectors are critical social infrastructure, supporting our oldest Australians with high-quality care, and our youngest with skilled educators and carers.
“Along with the superannuation announcement, this is a major investment in industries traditionally undervalued and dominated by women workers.
“We are looking forward to seeing ongoing momentum for workers’ wages to rise and cost of living announcements in the Budget tomorrow night.”
