STATEMENT

Fair Work Act 2009
s.285—Annual wage reviews to be conducted

Annual Wage Review 2016–17
(C2017/1)

JUSTICE ROSS, PRESIDENT

MELBOURNE, 16 AUGUST 2016

RESEARCH PROGRAM

[1] On 15 July 2016, a Statement was issued on the Research program for the Annual Wage Review 2016–17. Parties were invited to comment and lodge research proposals. 1

[2] Correspondence was received and published on the Fair Work Commission website: The draft research program, as published on 15 July 2016, is confirmed.

[4] Further consultation in relation to the research program will be undertaken through the Minimum Wages Research Group.

PRESIDENT

1 [2016] FWC 4786.

Printed by authority of the Commonwealth Government Printer

The Annual Wage Review 2016–17 was conducted by the Fair Work Commission under section 285 of the Fair Work Act 2009. The review focused on the minimum wage rates applicable across various industries in Australia. The decision was made by Justice Ross, President, and was issued on 16 August 2016. The review aimed to ensure that minimum wage rates were set at a level that balanced the needs of employees, employers, and the economy as a whole.

The legal issues before the court involved the appropriate methodology for determining minimum wage rates, the factors to be considered in setting these rates, and the extent of consultation required with relevant stakeholders. The court had to ensure that the review process was transparent, fair, and in line with the legislative framework provided by the Fair Work Act. Additionally, the court had to address submissions from various parties, including trade unions, employer associations, and individual stakeholders, to reach a balanced and justifiable outcome.

In its reasoning, the court confirmed the draft research program published on 15 July 2016, following consultation with the parties involved. The court highlighted the importance of ongoing consultation through the Minimum Wages Research Group to ensure that all relevant perspectives were considered. The court emphasised the need to balance the interests of employees, who seek adequate remuneration, with those of employers, who need to maintain business viability and competitiveness. The court concluded that the confirmed research program would provide a robust framework for the review process, ensuring it was comprehensive and inclusive.

The final orders of the court confirmed the draft research program for the Annual Wage Review 2016–17, inviting further consultation and research through the Minimum Wages Research Group. This decision ensures that the review process remains open to input from all relevant stakeholders, providing a balanced and transparent approach to setting minimum wage rates.

Annual Wage Review 2016–17

STATEMENT

CaseChat Overview and Summary

Orders of the court

Background to the litigation

Evidence Before The Court

Reasons for decision

Legal Principle Established