How much is the SCHADS pay rise in October 2026?

The Fair Work Commission's Expert Panel has expressed a provisional view ([2026] FWCFB 137) that current Schedule E rates — home care employees doing disability care — rise 15% from the first full pay period on or after 1 October 2026 (Level 4 pay point 2: +14.96%; Level 5 pay point 2: +13.31%). As at mid-August 2026 the final determination had not yet been published, so treat the increase as expected rather than confirmed.

Who gets the October 2026 SCHADS increase?

Employees classified under current SCHADS Schedule E — home care employees providing disability care (Levels 1-5). Home care aged-care classifications are not part of this increase; their work-value rises were delivered separately.

What happens to SCHADS classifications in 2027?

From 1 October 2027 a single new Framework Classification Structure replaces Schedules B, C, E and F across the award, with pay protection on translation — nobody's rate drops — and service-based progression.

Is the 15% on top of the July 2026 minimum wage increase?

Yes. The 4.75% Annual Wage Review increase applied to award minimums from 1 July 2026, and the Commission has said its gender-undervaluation increases apply to the AWR-adjusted rates — they are not absorbed into each other.

SCHADS Pay Rise Calculator (October 2026)

Calculate your new SCHADS Award rate from 1 October 2026 — the gender undervaluation increase for disability and home care workers.

Last verified: 14 August 2026

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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial or tax advice. Always check your specific award, agreement or contract, or a qualified professional, before you rely on the result.

SCHADS Pay Rise Calculator (October 2026)

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