Pay Rate Increase for Nurses - New Pay Guide Available Now

What is the Nurses Award Pay Guide?

The Nurses Award Pay Guide contains the minimum pay rates for full-time, part-time and casual employees covered by the Nurses Award [MA000034].

The current pay guide reflects the latest minimum pay rates, including the Fair Work Commission's work value changes for eligible nurses.

Why is it important to refer to the newest pay guide?

Minimum pay rates can change more than once during the year.

While most modern awards are updated following the Annual Wage Review on 1 July, the Fair Work Commission can also introduce additional wage changes through separate decisions.

To avoid underpaying employees, employers should always refer to the latest version of the pay guide.

When do the latest changes to the Nurses Award apply?

Following the Fair Work Commission's Work Value Case – Nurses and Midwives, eligible enrolled and registered nurses covered by the Nurses Award will receive the final staged minimum pay increase from the first pay period starting on or after 1 August 2026.

This is separate from the general minimum wage increase that applied from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026. The Fair Work Ombudsman has updated its pay guides and Pay and Conditions Tool to reflect these new rates.

Download the current Nurses Award Pay Guide >

Need help with payroll compliance?

Correctly applying award classifications and minimum pay rates can be complex, particularly where multiple award changes occur in the same year.

Discover our payroll compliance solutions >

If you're unsure whether your payroll reflects the latest Nurses Award changes, our workplace relations specialists can help.

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