Aged-care nurses in Australia have received a fifth increase to their award wages, effective from 1 August 2026. This marks the final stage of a Fair Work Commission decision.
The government stated yesterday that registered nurses in the sector, at the most common pay level, will have seen their annual salary increase by more than $36,000 due to these increases. Enrolled nurses at the most common level and pay point will have seen their annual wage increase by almost $32,000.
Aged Care Minister Sam Rae commented that better pay for nurses leads to improved care for older Australians. He added that the wage boost aims to help aged care homes attract and retain nurses, ensuring older people receive higher-quality, more consistent care.
AAP reported that these pay increases follow internal departmental documents indicating Australia would require an additional 35,000 aged-care workers this financial year as the population ages and more support is needed.