Welcome to the first edition of the quarterly Whitsundays Workpulse update series by Chamber member and industrial relations and human resource consultants, The Airlie Group.
It’s been a busy time for small and medium business across Queensland leading up to the end of financial year. As we start the new financial year a real focus for local businesses is ensuring you get the basics right.
Key changes from 1st July 2025
- The minimum wage has gone up to $24.95 per hour ($948 per week) for a 38-hour week. The 3.5% increase will apply to all awards, including the Hospitality Industry Award.
- Superannuation will rise to 12%
- Paid Parental Leave has been extended to 24 weeks (from 22 weeks)
On the radar
- Intentional Wage Theft laws are already in place from January 2025
- Right to Disconnect laws come into effect from 26 August 2025
- Minimum standards for “employee-like” gig workers (for example, ride share drivers) on the horizon
We encourage Chamber members and all businesses in the region to remain proactive and well-informed about changes that impact your business. Please reach out to your professional advisers, review your processes, and take the necessary steps to address these changes effectively.
By acting now, you can protect your business and maintain a competitive advantage in the ever-evolving business landscape.
Stay ahead by
- Ensure your payroll system is updated to reflect the changes.
- Undertake a Tuesday 1 July audit with your accountant, specifically ensuring accrual balances are adjusted and conduct a simple cross-check of your employees against the applicable award or contract.
- Adjust your workplace policies to ensure clear management on right to disconnect laws in August.
- Undertake a review of your casual workforce ensuring Employee Choice Pathway (conversion to permanent) is clear in your contracts/policies.
It might seem daunting with all the moving pieces; but ensuring you get the basics right will ensure risk mitigation and allow you to focus on working on your business more effectively rather than working in your business.
Local Industrial Relations Support
The Airlie Group provides specialist industrial relations and human resources to local industry.
They offer Chamber members a free of charge initial consultation on employee and industrial relations matters, resulting in structured general advice.
Contact Mark Lipkin and The Airlie Group today to start the conversation.
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