Hi Team,
I’m pleased to share an important update on the latest Work Value Case (WVC) wage increase. This is the final increase as part of the Stage 3 decision and marks a significant milestone in achieving fairer wages for our nurses in aged care.
A quick recap. In July 2023, registered and enrolled nurses received a 15% pay increase, which we applied straight away. The Fair Work Commission then made its final decision on 20 December 2024, introducing a new pay and classification structure for nurses. These changes have been rolled out in three stages: 1 March 2025, 1 October 2025, and 1 August 2026.
The current WVC increase applies to eligible enrolled and registered nurses, effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 August 2026.
Our commitment – passing it on, dollar for dollar.
Consistent with our approach at every stage, Whiddon has continued to match the increases dollar-for-dollar against the Modern Award rates to the Whiddon EA base rates of pay. While additional Government funding has been provided to support the award increases, it does not cover the full cost of maintaining our EA rates above the award, despite an earlier commitment to do so. Regardless, we have chosen to absorb that gap to ensure applicable team members receive the full increase.
We have also historically applied a discretionary 1.5% Enterprise Agreement annual increase on top of the WVC increases, keeping our EA rates above the Modern Award.
We are also progressing negotiations for a new single Enterprise Agreement to replace our three current agreements. Bargaining commenced in May 2026, and the first draft Agreement has now been released. Importantly, any wage increases delivered through the EA will be additional to the Work Value Case increases, not offset against them. Subject to Board approval, we are targeting 18 August 2026 to present our proposed wage offer.
Eligible employees will receive individual letters in the coming days confirming their new pay rates. Please note that not all employees are eligible for the WVC increases.
I also encourage you to visit the People and Culture intranet page for Enterprise Agreement updates and a copy of the proposed draft Agreement. We will continue to keep you updated and informed throughout the bargaining process.
Thank you, as always, for the incredible work you do to enrich people’s lives and make a real difference.
Chris Mamarelis
CEO