Australian Services Union seeks 35% pay rise for community workers

The Australian Services Union (ASU) has lodged a work value claim with the Fair Work Commission seeking a 35 per cent pay increase for workers under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Award. This represents the sector’s largest wage claim in over 14 years.

Union representatives argue that current base wages do not reflect the complexity, responsibility, and physical risks associated with the work. The sector is currently facing a severe retention crisis fueled by burnout and insufficient pay. An ASU member survey indicated that one in four community sector workers are considering leaving the industry within the next year to seek higher-paying roles.

The ASU is calling on the state government to fully fund any pay increases approved by the Fair Work Commission to prevent further staff shortages in a region where community needs are increasing.