Gender Undervaluation: Priority Awards Review Update

Justine Pepper
Jun 2
2 min read

The Fair Work Commission has made a decisive move to address gender undervaluation in the workplace—particularly within female-dominated sectors.

As part of its Gender Undervaluation Review, the Commission has announced a significant increase in minimum pay rates under the Pharmacy Industry Award and proposed similar changes to four other priority modern awards.

What's Changing

The Gender Undervaluation Review is part of a broader initiative to ensure employees—particularly women—receive fair and equitable pay for their work.

These efforts focus on awards covering industries historically undervalued due to gender biases.

To date, the Commission has:

Finalised wage increases under the Pharmacy Industry Award, and
Proposed changes to four additional awards, still under review:
- Health Services Award
- Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Award (SCHADS)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Award
- Children’s Services Award

Further updates for these awards are expected soon. Keep checking for the latest developments.

Changes to Pay Rates in the Pharmacy Award

Effective from 30 June 2025, pharmacists (including interns) under the Pharmacy Industry Award [MA000012] will see a 14.1% wage increase, delivered in three stages:

Stage 1 – 30 June 2025
Stage 2 – 30 June 2026
Stage 3 – 30 June 2027

This phased approach will allow employers time to adjust, while ensuring the profession is compensated fairly for its critical contribution to community health and wellbeing.

Why This Matters

This review is a landmark moment in closing the gender pay gap across some of Australia's most vital care and support sectors. It sends a strong message: work traditionally performed by women should not be undervalued.

Stay Updated

We’ll continue to share updates as the Commission finalises decisions on the remaining four awards.

Need help?

At Essential HR, we specialise in all things HR and Industrial Relations. Whether it’s reviewing wages, ensuring award compliance, or navigating complex employee matters — we’re here to make it simple and stress-free for your business.

📩 Get in touch today to E: hr@esshr.com.au