Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Before I entered parliament, I worked most of my life for the minimum wage at various Woolworths stores in the south-east suburbs of Melbourne. I know how tough it can be to make ends meet, and that's why I am proud to stand here today as a part of the Albanese Labor government. Starting 1 July, the minimum wage will rise to $24 per hour, benefiting around 2.6 million Australian workers. This 3.75 per cent increase means a full-time minimum-wage worker will see their weekly earnings rise to $913.91. This will provide much-needed relief for workers on the minimum wage who are dealing with the brunt of the cost-of-living pressures.

Our government has consistently fought for fair wages for all workers to ensure workers can live with dignity and security. In contrast, the previous Liberal-National government never argued for a real wage increase for lower paid workers. This wage increase is a testament to what happens when we have a government that genuinely advocates for its workers. It is a significant win for Australian workers and a positive step towards a fairer and more equitable society.