The Commonwealth Government’s Same Job, Same Pay laws have been driving significant wage gains across the Australian economy and creating long-term benefits worth billions, this report finds. It also highlights specific industries where workers are already benefitting: mining, aviation and retail.

Key findings

• Same Job, Same Pay is projected to drive an annual wage uplift of up to $920.3 million in a moderate scenario, with a potential to exceed $1 billion in higher estimates.
• This wage uplift could deliver a broader economic contribution of up to $2.556 billion annually, as higher wages stimulate spending and regional economic activity.
• In sectors like mining, aviation and retail, workers are already seeing life-changing pay increases of $30,000–$60,000 per year.
• Some companies are proactively shifting labour hire workers into direct employment to comply with the new laws, ending a decade of outsourcing.
• Labour force data shows no negative employment effects from the changes. Instead, it shows rising employment, tight labour markets and increased job satisfaction.
• Broader economic benefits are compounding, particularly in regions dependent on mining and manufacturing. The report estimates a total economic benefit of $2.556 billion annually, growing to $5.5 billion by 2034.