1:30min
By Rhiannon Riches
Optometry Australia
New Sunday and public holiday penalty rates come into effect from 1 July 2017.
The Fair Work Commission handed down its decision on 5 June about how the lower Sunday penalty rate changes will be introduced.
The FWC has also announced a 3.3 per cent increase to minimum wages. The increase will apply from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2017.
General Retail Industry Award New Penalty Rates
Sunday Penalty Rates
Full-time and part-time employees
1 July 2017 – 195%
1 July 2018 – 180%
1 July 2019 – 165%
1 July 2020 – 150%
Casual employees (inclusive of casual loading)
1 July 2017 – 195%
1 July 2018 – 185%
1 July 2019 – 175%
Public Holiday Penalty Rates
Full-time and part-time employees – 225%
Casual employees – 250%
Optometry Australia’s Advantage Partner, Employer Assist, advises optometry employers to start reviewing their employees’ current pay rates and employment contracts now. Read more on employment advice.