Australia’s national minimum wage to rise by 3.5% from July 2025, nearly 3 million workers to benefit

The Fair Work Commission has officially announced that from July 2025, Australia’s national minimum wage will increase by 3.5%, directly benefiting nearly 3 million employees across the country.

This adjustment not only impacts local workers, but is also good news for international students, working holiday makers, and Chinese families planning to study and migrate to Australia.

Minimum hourly wage to rise to $24.95 AUD

Under the latest decision, the national minimum wage will rise from $24.10 AUD/hour to $24.95 AUD/hour — an increase of $0.85 AUD/hour.

In terms of annual income, minimum wage earners will see an additional $1,669 AUD (approximately ¥7,800 RMB) per year, reflecting a 3.5% increase.

Australia’s Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Tony Burke, noted that this adjustment will help improve living conditions for low-income workers and ease the financial pressures caused by the current high cost of living.

Which industries will be most affected?

According to the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation), around 20% of Australia’s workforce is currently paid under the national minimum wage, with the following industries most impacted:

• Accommodation and food services

• Healthcare and social assistance

• Retail trade

• Early childhood education

• Cleaning services

These industries are also popular sectors for many international students and temporary visa holders working in Australia. The wage increase will directly boost income for students working in these areas, helping them better manage tuition and living costs.

What is the policy signalling?

Australia’s Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, stated that raising the minimum wage will have a positive impact on both workers and the broader economy. It is expected to help ease the cost of living pressures and stimulate domestic consumption.

Australia has faced ongoing inflationary pressures in recent years, with rising costs for food, housing, and other essentials. The latest minimum wage increase is also seen as part of broader policy efforts to tackle inflation and safeguard the wellbeing of low-income groups.

What should students and temporary workers pay attention to?

For Chinese students planning to study in Australia or already living and working here, here are some key points to note:

• From July 2025, any legal employment must pay at least $24.95 AUD/hour — wages cannot fall below this standard.

• Students working in retail, hospitality, cleaning, or childcare will benefit directly from the pay rise.

• Families planning for study abroad should factor this wage increase into their financial planning — balancing tuition, living costs, and expected part-time income.

• When selecting courses, students can consider programs that allow for internship and work opportunities, helping to build employability and income capacity.

Although university tuition fees in Australia continue to trend upwards and living costs remain a concern, the government’s ongoing efforts to raise the minimum wage provide real financial benefits for international students, part-time workers, and prospective skilled migrants.

If you have any questions or would like professional assistance, please feel free to contact us at Riverwood Migration (Email: [email protected]). We are committed to providing transparent, expert migration services to help you achieve your dream of moving to Australia.