The Local Government, Racing and Cemeteries Employees Union (LGRCEU) applied to increase the Industry Allowance in the Municipal Employees (Western Australia) Award 2021 from $21.82 to $34.82 per week. The Union argued that the allowance had not been updated for a significant period and no longer reflected its intended value. The proposed increase aims to align the allowance with the Adverse Working Conditions Allowance in the Local Government Industry Award 2020.

Supported by the Western Australian Municipal, Administrative, Clerical and Services Union of Employees (WASU), the application faced no opposition. The proposed change does not affect the Award's scope or operation and meets the requirements for variation. The Union highlighted that the Industry Allowance had remained static while wage rates for key classifications had risen significantly.

The Senior Commissioner acknowledged that the Industry Allowance had not been updated and that this disparity needed to be addressed to ensure fairness within the State industrial relations system. She decided to increase the Industry Allowance to $34.82 per week, effective from the beginning of the first pay period following the Order. This adjustment aims to rectify the longstanding inequity and align the allowance with similar rates under the Modern Award.

The decision can be read here.