United Voice News
Minimum wage decision will hurt low income families
LHMU, who represent some of the lowest paid workers in the state, have criticised the Fair Pay Commission’s decision not to increase the federal minimum wage.
“This is an appalling decision by the Fair Pay Commission, a decision that will have far-reaching consequences for struggling families across Australia,” said LHMU Assistant Secretary Carolyn Smith.
“This decision will particularly hurt workers in the aged care, childcare, hospitality, cleaning and security industries.
“These workers are already struggling to survive on the minimum wage and dealing with the increased cost of living and basic utilities in WA.”
“An extra $21 per week would have been an appropriate and realistic increase for these people. It would have made a difference to the millions of families who have to account for every dollar of their earnings.”
“With this decision, the Fair Pay Commission, a body who should be protecting the lowest paid workers has clearly demonstrated that it does not look out for the interests of the lowest paid.
“The Fair Pay Commission’s chairman, Professor Ian Harper, does not live in the real world. But it’s easy for him because he’s not on the minimum wage.”
