After July 1st, the new national minimum wage for a full-time adult will be $17.29 an hour, or $656.90 a week.
The Fair Work Ombudsman is encouraging employers to use its online pay tools to check new pay rates applicable to their workplace.
"In our experience, a common cause of underpayment of wages is the failure by employers to pass on annual wage increases," says Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James.
"Our online tools and resources can assist employers to determine their applicable Modern Award, as well as classification and pay rates, including base pay rates, allowances, overtime and penalty rates."
James says the Fair Work Ombudsman provides practical advice that is easy to access, understand and apply in support of encouraging compliant, productive and inclusive Australian workplaces.
"Our focus is on educating employers about their obligations and assisting them to put processes in place to ensure that any errors we find don't occur again," she said.
James says the overwhelming majority of employers want to do the right thing by their employees and get it right when it comes to workplace laws.
Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Innes Willox noted that the National Minimum Wage will increase by 2.5 per cent, which is in line with the 2nd of June Annual Wage Review Decision by the Fair Work Commission.
"The wage increase will no doubt be welcomed by Australian workers but it will be an unwelcome burden for many businesses which are struggling in the current difficult and volatile operating environment. It will also not be welcomed by those looking for work as it will make it harder for businesses to take on additional staff," Willox said.
Employers seeking advice and assistance can contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.
