BBHMM: The Minimum Wage In Australia Has Been Raised

The minimum wage in Australia has been raised by $16 a week to $17.29 an hour.

That this should take place the same week Rihanna drops the music video for “B**** Better Have My Money” cannot be a coincidence.

Prior to the change, the national minimum wage for a 38-hour working week was $640.90. It is now $656.90 (or, $17.29 per hour).

The raise went into effect yesterday, after the Fair Work Commission determined the appropriate benefits in June.

Though a win for workers, the unions aren’t quite as enthusiastic about the increase.

The Australian Council of Trade Unions insists the new minimum wage won’t help those in low-income households combat higher healthcare, education and childcare costs.

Australian Industry Group chief Innes Wilox told the Sydney Morning Herald the new minimum pay of $656.90 a week will also make it harder for businesses to take on additional staff.

What say you? Is this a good thing?