Published: June 2025
A quick-fire update for busy bookkeepers
The Fair Work Commission has released its Annual Wage Review for 2025-26, announcing a 3.5% increase to the National Minimum Wage and all modern award minimum rates. To help bookkeepers get payroll files in order before 1 July 2025, here’s a quick summary of the key points you need to know.
Content
- New Minimum Rates
- Super Jumps Too
- Action Checklist for Bookkeepers
- Keep your Payroll Skills Sharp
1. New Minimum Rates
| From 1 July 2025 | Old Rate | New Rate |
| National Minimum Wage (38-hr week) | $915.90 pw / $24.10 ph | ≈ $948 pw / $24.95 ph |
Applies from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025 (e.g. if your weekly cycle starts Wednesday, use the new rates from Wednesday 2 July). fairwork.gov.au
Tip: award wages move by the same percentage. Most payroll software will push an update, but always cross-check the figures that land in your pay-items list.
2. Super jumps too
Don’t forget the legislated rise in the Superannuation Guarantee to 12 % from the same date. Make sure your default super rate and any salary-sacrifice calculations switch over automatically. ato.gov.au
3. Action checklist for bookkeepers
- Update payroll software – install rate tables, test a dummy pay-run.
- Review allowances & loadings – meal, tool and travel allowances shift when base rates do.
- Inform clients & staff early – revised budgets, quotes or project pricing may be needed.
- Audit employment contracts – minimums must not fall below the new award levels.
- Refresh your knowledge – the Fair Work Pay & Conditions Tool will publish updated guides closer to 1 July; bookmark it now. fairwork.gov.au
4. Keep your payroll skills sharp
Staying ahead of compliance changes is easier when you’ve got the right training. Applied Education’s Payroll Administration Skill Set and Diploma of Payroll Services dive deep into award interpretation, super changes and Single Touch Payroll reporting. If you’d like personalised guidance, chat to our enrolment team – we’re here to help you turn legislative updates into seamless pay-runs.
Got questions?
Feel free to leave a comment below or get in touch with us via the live chat on our website. We’ll continue to share updates as new information from Fair Work or the ATO becomes available.
Please note: This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Always refer to the latest guidance from Fair Work and the ATO to confirm figures and requirements.
