Some awards will have new definitions and minimum pay rates for entry-level classifications from 2025.
What’s changing
There are upcoming changes for the Horticulture Award, including:
- introductory classifications can only apply for a limited time
- new rules and minimum pay apply for introductory rates.
The Review of C14 and C13 rates in modern awards arose from the Annual Wage Review 2018-19 Decision and follows from the decision of 16 April 2024 in which it was determined that:
- the lowest classification rate in any modern award applicable to ongoing employment should be at least the C13 rate (currently $915.90 per week)
- any classification rate below the C13 rate must be an entry-level rate operating for a limited period and provide a clear transition to a higher rate
- the transition period should not exceed 6 months.
Therefore, following changes to the Horticulture Award 2020, Level 1 will progress to Level 2 after no more than 3 months’ industry experience.
The changes apply from 1 April 2025. FGV wil provide more information closer to this date.
Horticulture Award Determination available HERE
