Application by Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (006N)
What happened
The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) applied to increase minimum rates for junior employees in the General Retail Industry Award 2020, Fast Food Industry Award 2020, and Pharmacy Industry Award 2020. A decision was made on March 31, 2026, and a further hearing was scheduled to discuss implementation and transitional arrangements. Parties have submitted draft determinations with differing approaches to the transition process, including whether to use single or individual variations and separate or consolidated tables.
What was decided
The Fair Work Commission has published draft determinations regarding changes to minimum rates for junior employees in three industry awards. These drafts indicate a provisional approach to technical drafting issues and variations to rates tables. The dates of transitional arrangements are under consideration, with 30 June being proposed instead of 1 July. Further submissions from parties will be heard at a hearing scheduled for August 2026.
What it means for employers
Employers covered by the General Retail Industry Award 2020, Fast Food Industry Award 2020, and Pharmacy Industry Award 2020 should review the published draft determinations. They need to be prepared to discuss implementation details, including transitional arrangements and dates, at the upcoming hearing.
What it means for employees
Employees who are junior employees in industries covered by the General Retail Industry Award 2020, Fast Food Industry Award 2020, and Pharmacy Industry Award 2020 may see changes to their minimum rates. They should review the draft determinations and consider providing feedback at the upcoming hearing.
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