The state’s peak business organisation, Business NSW, says the NSW Government has hit the right balance with its 3% pay increase offering to Public Sector employees, rising to 3.5% next year contingent on productivity measures being met.

“This is a fiscally responsible move, and one the business community across the State supports,” said Business NSW Chief Executive Daniel Hunter.

“It aligns with our submission to the Fair Work Commission on the Annual Wage Review for private sector workers which recommended a 2.5% to 3% rise to the minimum wage,” Mr Hunter said.

“We all understand the rising cost of living and no one wants to see front-line public sector workers leave their industries in the search for higher wages, but it’s in all our interests to avoid further industrial action especially during this challenging global environment.”

“There is no bottomless pit of money, and the Government has to balance the very legitimate claims of increased pay for these workers with the overriding need to ensure debt levels do not constrain Government’s options for use of taxpayer funds for future generations.

“The NSW Government is investing billions of dollars in upgraded services and the Budget, to be delivered in a fortnight, will detail that commitment.

“We all understand the rising cost of living and no one wants to see front-line public sector workers leave their industries in the search for higher wages, but it’s in all our interests to avoid further industrial action especially during this challenging global environment.

“Strikes, or even the threat of strikes harms the entire community, and while there are valid points to be made about workplace conditions, inconveniencing the broader population, particularly smaller business who need to close down for the day, is incredibly challenging,” Mr Hunter said.

About Business NSW

Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826.