Australia’s New Minimum Wage Increase From July 2021 Onwards – So, How Will Au-pairs Be Paid Now?
The Au Pair Program is considered a cultural exchange, therefore, we advocate that it should not be considered an employment arrangement.
However, we do recommend families still be guided by the minimum wage rules for any hours outside of 15-20 (which cover board and food). The below may apply to families who under the ATO may be considered as an Employer.
Recently, the 3% annual wage increase was officially announced to apply to the previous minimum national wage rate as well as to the modern awards (also applicable to Au-pairs), by Fair Work Ombudsman here. It was $18.93/hour previously but now the new pay rate has increased to $20.33/hour. This new rate will be applied from 1 July 2021 onwards.
Update: As of 1 July 2021 the national minimum wage is $20.33 per hour or $772.60 per week. For reference, click here.
However, this change is only valid for employees who are currently paid the minimum national wage rate. It is not valid for employees who are already paid more than the new minimum wage rate.
We have continuously received queries by host families related to the amount that needs to be paid to Au pairs beyond 15 hours (covered by board and food). Please be informed that Au Pairs falls under the ‘Miscellaneous Award 2010’ category, hence the change in the minimum wage rate is applicable to them as well.
99aupairs strongly recommends that Australian host families comply with new rules and pay Au-pairs at least their minimum pay rates. Host families whose agreement falls outside of ‘cultural exchange and considered an employer by ATO, are required to apply these new rules.
Au-pairs are also requested by Fair Work Ombudsman, Sandra Parker to “familiarize with your new rates of pay”. Help is also provided for “any workers with concerns about their pay,” by FWO, as published in ISM.
Host families and Au-pairs can also calculate the overtime pay rates for apprentices here: https://calculate.fairwork.gov.au/FindYourAward
If you need further assistance or have any questions regarding Au Pair’s minimum wage, please contact us at support@99aupairs.com, we are more than happy to help.