The Fair Work Commission has today handed down its decision confirming when penalty rates reductions will take effect in the retail hospitality, pharmacy and fast food sectors.
The reductions will be implemented as follows:
| Award |
1 July 2017 |
1 July 2018 |
1 July 2019 |
1 July 2020 |
| Retail (permanent) |
195% |
180% |
165% |
150% |
| Retail (casual) |
195% |
185% |
175% |
175% |
| Fast Food - Level 1 only (permanent) |
145% |
135% |
125% |
125% |
| Fast Food - Level 1 only (casual) |
170% |
160% |
150% |
150% |
| Hospitality (permanent) |
170% |
160% |
150% |
150% |
| Pharmacy (permanent) |
195% |
180% |
165% |
150% |
| Pharmacy (casual) |
220% |
205% |
190% |
175% |
This marks the conclusion of the Penalty Rates Case proceedings, in which ABLA played a leading role - representing the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the NSW Business Chamber.
Nigel Ward, ABLA CEO stated:
“Frankly, the outcome is what we expected.
The introduction of modern awards originally took 4 years to phase in. We expected the change to penalty rates to be phased in between 2-3 years and this is what happened.
Like the original decision, the Commission has worked hard to adopt a reasonable balance for the needs of employees and employers.
This marks the conclusion of the Penalty Rates Case proceedings, in which ABLA played a leading role - representing the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the NSW Business Chamber.
I am very proud of the contribution the ABLA team has made, starting in 2012 when we filed the original Restaurant Industry Penalty Rate Case. It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the extraordinary support provided by the NSW Business Chamber and its members who have helped resource this ground-breaking project from day one.”
As always, if there is any issue within your business that might give rise to a claim, early intervention is the best protection. Feel free to contact us on 1300 565 846 if this raises any questions.