The Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission has increased the State Minimum Wage by 4.75%, which brings the State Minimum Wage to $998.30 per week from 1 July 2026. The Commission also increased award rates of pay by 4.75% from that time.
The increases apply only to employees who are paid the minimum wage or award rates in the State industrial relations system. Approximately 27,000 employers and more than 300,000 employees are estimated to be affected by the decision.
In making its decision, the Commission is required to consider a broad range of economic and labour market factors, and social and equity considerations.
The Commission noted that there is heightened uncertainty and volatility arising from the Middle East conflict. Although the Western Australian economy has remained resilient with solid labour market conditions, strong investment and robust household consumption, rising costs, particularly fuel, have intensified pressures on low paid employees and small businesses.
Inflation has lifted to 3.9% to April 2026 and is expected to remain elevated above the Reserve Bank of Australia’s target band into 2026-27. The recent uptick in inflation has eroded the real wage gains achieved in 2025, and ongoing risks to household spending and business confidence underscore the need for a balanced approach that supports living standards while recognising the pressures facing small businesses.

A full copy of the decision can be read here.

You can view the Wage Case 2026 page for further information.