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Some awards will have new definitions and minimum pay rates for entry-level classifications from 2025.
 
What’s changing
There are upcoming changes for the Horticulture Award, including:

• introductory classifications can only apply for a limited time
• new rules and minimum pay apply for introductory rates.

The Review of C14 and C13 rates in modern awards arose from the Annual Wage Review 2018-19 Decision and follows from the decision of 16 April 2024 in which it was determined that:

• the lowest classification rate in any modern award applicable to ongoing employment should be at least the C13 rate (currently $915.90 per week)
• any classification rate below the C13 rate must be an entry-level rate operating for a limited period and provide a clear transition to a higher rate
• the transition period should not exceed 6 months.

Therefore, following changes to the Horticulture Award 2020, Level 1 will progress to Level 2 after no more than 3 months’ industry experience.

The changes apply from 1 April 2025.  More information will be provided closer to this date.

Horticulture Award Determination available HERE