Nurses Award Pay Rate changes from 1 March 2025

Effective from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 March 2025, significant changes will be implemented to the Nurses Award 2020, impacting Registered and Enrolled Nurses, particularly those working in aged care settings. These modifications aim to simplify the pay structure and enhance compensation for nursing professionals.

Simplification of Pay Structure for Registered Nurses in Aged Care

The classification system for Registered Nurses in aged care will undergo notable revisions:

• Elimination of Annual Progression Through Pay Points: Previously, Registered Nurses advanced through multiple pay points within Levels 1, 2, and 3 based on tenure. This annual progression will be removed, streamlining the pay scale.
• Removal of Grades for Levels 4 and 5: The existing grades within Levels 4 and 5 will be abolished, simplifying the classification structure.
• Introduction of Increments for Levels 1 and 2: Instead of the previous progression system, increments will now apply to employees classified as Registered Nurse – Aged Care Levels 1 and 2, based on experience and tenure.
• Standardized Starting Pay for Newly Qualified Registered Nurses: Newly qualified Registered Nurses entering the aged care sector will commence at the same pay level, addressing previous disparities where starting pay varied based on qualifications.

Changes to Enrolled Nurses in Aged Care

Enrolled Nurses working in aged care will experience the following adjustments:

• Unified Higher Minimum Pay Rate: The previous multiple pay points for Enrolled Nurses will be consolidated into a single, higher minimum pay rate, ensuring equitable compensation across the board.
• Potential Supervisory Responsibilities: Enrolled Nurses may now be required to supervise other direct care employees, reflecting the evolving scope of their roles within aged care settings.

Implementation of Schedule F

A new Schedule F will be incorporated into the Nurses Award 2020, detailing the translation arrangements for existing employees. This schedule will:

• Outline Classification Transitions: Specify the new classifications for employees following the structural changes.
• Maintain Previous Pay Rates: Ensure that employees who were receiving a higher minimum rate as of 28 February 2025 will continue to receive their previous pay rates, preserving their existing compensation levels.

Access to Updated Information

For comprehensive details on the forthcoming changes, including the full table of classifications and updated pay guides, refer to the Fair Work Commission’s official publications:

• FWC Determination: Access the determination outlining the new classifications and pay rates here.
• FWO Pay Guide: Consult the updated Fair Work Ombudsman Pay Guide, effective from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 March 2025, here.

These changes reflect a concerted effort to enhance the recognition and remuneration of nursing professionals, particularly those dedicated to aged care, ensuring fair compensation and a more streamlined classification system. You can also find the updated FWO Pay Guide, effective from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 March 2025, here.