Unions NT welcome cost-of-living bonuses, benefits

Amid cost-of-living pressures, Territorian workers are celebrating bonuses aimed to alleviate their financial pains.

Workers have been guaranteed a suite of new bonuses.

For unions and workers, Territory Day celebrations will be even more enjoyable, after the federal government announced a string of workplace bonuses which rolls out this month.

From July 1, 2024, Territorian workers are set to receive a minimum-wage increase of 3.75 per cent, a $300 energy bill relief, a lift in superannuation guarantee to 11.5 per cent, and an increase in paid parental leave to 22 weeks.

Unions NT President David Hayes said the new perks would deliver “real difference” to Territorians.

“Award reliant Territory workers will receive a pay rise won by unions in addition to the Albanese government’s cost-of-living tax bonus,” he said.

“If you’re a cleaner, that means $44 more in your pocket every week.”

The announcement comes amid the federal government’s efforts to combat cost-of-living pressures, with significant price hikes having occurred across housing, energy bills and groceries.

Cost-of-living bonuses are being given to Australian workers.

In December 2023, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that the nation had recorded its highest annual wage growth since 2009, following regulated pay increases to the aged care sector and new bargaining agreements achieved in both the education and health sectors.

In June 2024, the Fair Work Commission announced the minimum wage would increase by 3.5 per cent, which amounts to $915.90 per week, or $24.10 per hour, and will apply to more than two million workers on modern award minimum wages.

The Fair Work Commission revealed the main consideration behind the decision had been the cost-of-living pressures that employees, particularly low paid workers or low-income households, continued to experience, despite inflation being “considerably lower” than 2023.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers says “more cost-of-living help” is on the way. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

Mr Hayes hailed the latest pay boost as a win for Territory families.

“Territory workers are looking forward to seeing more money in their pay packets from unions winning higher wages and the federal government delivering a cost-of-living tax bonus,” he said.

“Higher pay means less stress for working people, so we welcome July 1 as a great day for Territorian workers, their families and communities.”

On Monday morning, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said further financial assistance was on the way.

“Whether you’re a truckie, a tradie or a teacher, from Logan to Launceston, Western Sydney to Western Australia, Wentworth to West Footscray – more cost-of-living help is coming your way from today in the form of energy rebates, tax cuts and more,” he said.