From 1 October 2019, penalty rates under the Retail Award for casuals are increasing for work after 6pm Monday to Friday and all day on Saturdays.
These improvements are being phased in from 2018 through to 2021. From 1 October 2019 the following penalty rates for casual workers will increase to:
- After 6pm Monday to Friday: 135%
- Saturdays: 145%
These increases were won by the SDA, the union for retail workers, in the Fair Work Commission.
The SDA believes casual workers should receive fair compensation for working unsociable hours. Casual workers receive higher rates of pay because they are not entitled to many of the benefits permanent workers receive such as annual leave.
This win recognises casual workers in the retail industry should receive penalty rates and casual loading when they are working unsociable hours.
Improvements to casual penalty rates apply for workers covered by the General Retail Industry Award. They will also flow on to many SDA-negotiated Agreements. If you’re unsure about what applies to you, contact the SDA for information and advice.
