decision [2024] FWCFB 452
Citation: [2024] FWCFB 452
What happened
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) sought variations to the Nurses Award 2020, aiming for pay increases for nurses and personal care workers in the aged care sector. Previous decisions (Stage 1 and Stage 2) had already granted an interim 15% wage increase for direct care employees. The current case (Stage 3) considered further wage adjustments based on work value, classification structures, and historical gender undervaluation. The ANMF also filed a separate application (AM2024/11) seeking specific pay rates for nurses outside the aged care sector. The Fair Work Commission reviewed the history of the award and the evolution of nursing roles.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission found that the minimum rates of pay for degree-qualified nurses in the Nurses Award were not properly fixed and reflected historical gender undervaluation. The Commission determined that a further increase to minimum award rates of pay was justified based on work value. For aged care RNs with a four-year degree, the benchmark rate was set at $1470.80 per week, aligning with the C10 Metals Framework. The Commission also established a rate of $1370.80 per week for ENs supervising other personal care workers. The Commission noted that full classification structure finalisation would require further consideration.
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This summary was drafted from the published decision and reviewed before publishing. It is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, speak to the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified lawyer. About these summaries & corrections →