On 1 February 2012, Fair Work Australia (FWA) made a historic decision to increase wages in the social and community services sector.
This decision affects workers who are employed under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SACS Modern Award). Specifically, the decision affects those worker classified under the following Schedules:
- Schedule B ÛÒ Classification Definitions – Social and Community Services Employees; and
- Schedule C ÛÒ Classification Definitions – Crisis Accommodation Employees
This decision means that, starting on 1 December 2012, workers employed under the SACS Modern Award social and community services (SACS) and crisis assistance and supported housing classifications will receive annual increases to their minimum rates of pay until 1 December 2020.
The Equal Remuneration Order (ERO) handed down by FWA on 22 June 2012 determines how these pay increases will be introduced.
The FaHCSIA website contains detailed information on the increase as well as many Frequently Asked questions.