The Fair Work Commission has released the SCHADS Industry Award for 2023-24, which applies from 1 July. Employers are kindly reminded to stay updated on their obligations under the award and ensure that staff are paid at least the minimum entitlements.
Payroll systems should be promptly updated to reflect any changes in wages and allowances. Failure to pay correct allowances can result in penalties for underpayment and back-pay liabilities.
Three recent changes to Fair Work Legislation include the automatic termination of “zombie agreements” made before 2010, an extension of unpaid parental leave under certain circumstances, and granting workers the ability to request flexible working arrangements during pregnancy or in cases of family and domestic violence.
To avoid breaches and access further information on the 2023-24 SCHADS pay guide, employers can reach out to HR software provider Workstem.
What are the classifications and employment levels under the SCHADS Award?
Under the SCHADS Award, the classifications and employment levels are determined based on the qualifications, experience, and key employment duties of employees. The minimum wage rate is classified into four different groups:
- Social and Community Services Employees
- Crisis Accommodation Employees
- Family Day Care Employees
- Home Care Employees
What are the SCHADS Award pay rates for 2023?
|
SCHADS Award classification |
Minimum full time weekly wage | Hourly rate | Casual hourly rate |
| Level 2.1 | $1223.85 | $32.21 |
$40.26 |
|
Level 2.2 |
$1262.23 | $33.22 | $41.52 |
|
Level 2.3 |
$1300.60 | $34.23 |
$42.78 |
| Level 2.4 | $1335.29 | $35.14 |
$43.92 |
|
Level 3.1 |
$1367.86 | $36.00 | $45.00 |
|
Level 3.2 |
$1407.17 | $37.03 | $46.29 |
|
Level 3.3 |
$1437.28 | $37.82 | $47.28 |
|
Level 3.4 |
$1466.77 | $38.60 |
$48.25 |
| Level 4.1 | $1577.80 | $41.52 |
$51.90 |
| Level 4.2 | $1618.98 | $42.60 |
$53.26 |
| Level 4.3 | $1660.56 | $43.70 |
$54.62 |
What are the SCHADS Award pay rates for 2024?
The SCHADS Award pay rates for 2024 has increased 3.75% starting from July 1, 2024. These rates are expected to be linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which showed an inflation rate of 4.3% in the twelve months leading up to November of the previous year. It is crucial for employers and employees in Australia’s Social, Community, Home Care, and Disability Services (SCHADS) sector to stay well-informed about these potential changes in order to maintain fair and competitive compensation standards within the industry.
To obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding SCHADS Award pay rates in 2024, it is recommended that individuals stay updated through official sources.
What is the impact on workers employed under the SCHADS Award?
The impact for workers employed under the SCHADS (Social, Community, Home Care, and Disability Services) can be summarized as follows:
- Positive Impact for Direct Care Workers: The changes in the SCHADS are expected to have a positive impact on direct care workers. They are likely to benefit from increased entitlements, such as leave, payroll, workers’ compensation, and superannuation. These improvements can enhance the overall well-being and financial stability of direct care workers in the industry.
- Negative Impact for Non-Care Workers: On the other hand, non-care workers employed under the SCHADS may experience a negative impact. They may not be eligible for pay increases resulting from the changes. This discrepancy in benefits can create disparities within the workforce, potentially leading to dissatisfaction and decreased morale among non-care workers who may feel undervalued compared to their care worker counterparts.
How can Workstem assist you?
Simplify your payroll process and ensure accurate pay rates with Workstem’s automated payroll system. Our pre-built modern award interpretation software covers 122+ awards and 34 EBAs, and keeps you up-to-date with penalty rates and other award entitlements.
Choose between our Standard and Advanced plans, and enjoy a range of benefits such as Fair Work compliance, an employee self-service App, and customised rule set.
Book a free demo with our payroll experts. Experience the efficiency and accuracy of Workstem today!
Read More:
Understanding Pay Point Progression in the SCHADS Award
Streamline SCHADS Award Compliance with HR Software
