The Coalition supports the independent process to determine the minimum wage increase of 4.75 per cent, as outlined by the Fair Work Commission.
The Fair Work Commission itself has noted that while last year's decision "involved a real wage increase, the accelerated rate of inflation since then has substantially opened up that gap yet again". That is a direct consequence of Labor's failure to get inflation under control.
Real wages have gone backwards by 3 per cent since the Albanese Government came to power, and Labor's own Budget forecasts show they will continue to fall.
Shadow Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations Senator Jane Hume said everyone wants to see higher real wages, but lasting improvements in living standards depend on lower inflation and a stronger economy.
"There is little comfort in a wage increase if Labor's inflation simply eats it away. The best way to improve living standards for all Australians is to get inflation down, lift productivity and support businesses to grow and employ more Australians.
"In light of today's decision and last week's Labour Force data showing almost 700,000 Australians are unemployed, it is even more crucial that Labor axe their toxic taxes on small businesses and tackle inflation.
"When businesses are struggling with rising costs and Labor's new taxes, there is a real risk that fewer jobs will be created and fewer opportunities will be available for Australians looking for work. Higher wages mean nothing if you don't have a job," Senator Hume said.
Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson said "Jim Chalmers stoked the inflation that means households are going backwards and need catchup pay rises".
"Chalmers active inflation agenda is sending real wages backward, and the Fair Work Commission has confirmed it", Mr Wilson said.
"The Liberals and Nationals want Australians to keep more of what they earn and end Labor's inflation tax. That's why we have announced our Tax Back Guarantee".
"The Tax Back Guarantee is an automatic tax cut that gets bigger every year to help with the cost of living, and protect salaries and wages from Labor's inflation stealth tax".
Only the Liberals and Nationals have a plan to deliver a fairer, freer and better Australia.
