[2025] FWCFB 297
Citation: [2025] FWCFB 297
What happened
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) is reviewing classifications in five modern awards to address potential gender-based undervaluation. This decision finalises the review for dental assistants, pathology collectors, and health professionals covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (HPSS Award). Following an initial decision in April 2025, the FWC expressed provisional views on how to rectify undervaluation. Interested parties, including unions (Australian Council of Trade Unions, Health Services Union, United Workers’ Union), the Dental Assistants Professional Association (DAPA), the Dental Service Business Council (DSBC), and the Australian Dental Association (ADA), provided evidence and submissions. The review considered classifications, minimum wage rates, and operative dates.
What was decided
The FWC has finalised the review of classifications and rates of pay for dental assistants, pathology collectors, and health professionals. The Commission found gender-based undervaluation existed and adjusted classifications and rates accordingly. Dental assistants will be reclassified within the HPSS Award's existing structure, with unqualified assistants placed above Level 4. Certificate III-qualified assistants will be classified higher. The operative date and phasing-in arrangements were agreed upon, with variations and wage increases to be implemented immediately, subject to a 1–2 month notice period for administrative arrangements. The Commission considered submissions from various parties and made adjustments to the provisional views based on the evidence presented.
What it means for employers
Employers covered by the HPSS Award must review and implement the new classification structure and wage rates for dental assistants, pathology collectors, and health professionals. They should ensure compliance with the operative date and phasing-in arrangements. Employers should be aware of the Commission's focus on gender-based undervaluation and consider similar reviews of other roles within their organisations.
What it means for employees
Dental assistants, pathology collectors, and health professionals covered by the HPSS Award will see changes to their classifications and wage rates. Employees should understand their new classification level and associated pay. The Commission’s decision highlights the importance of qualifications and experience in determining pay levels.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fwc.gov.au/documents/decisionssigned/pdf/2025fwcfb297.pdfWant more cases like this?
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This summary was drafted by AI 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 →