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Greens back unions' minimum wage target

The minimum wage would be 60 per cent of the median income under a Greens-backed union plan to boost the pay packets of Australia's lowest-paid workers.

Australia's lowest-paid workers would have more than $60 a week extra in their pockets under a Greens-backed union plan.

The minor party has unveiled its new industrial relations policy, which supports the Australian Council of Trade Unions' long-term target to make minimum wage 60 per cent of the median income.

The Greens will introduce legislation to phase in pay increases to meet the target as soon as possible.

"If trickle-down economics worked, we'd all be drenched by now. It's time for the government to put its hands back on the levers," Greens' employment spokesman Adam Bandt said.

"Working people need a living wage enshrined in law."

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The median wage is $1261 a week, with 60 per cent of that figure $756, which would increase the minimum wage by almost $62.

The ACTU is pushing for an immediate $50-a-week pay increase when the industrial umpire makes its upcoming minimum wage ruling.

Employer groups have warned that figure would reduce the job security of low-paid workers and lower employment opportunities.


1 min read

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Source: AAP



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