🏆 The countdown is on!

The AWCI Awards return on 16 October in Victoria, where we’ll celebrate the best in wall and ceiling excellence across Australia. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your standout project—entries close 31 July!

✨ You’ve got to be in it to win it! Nominate Your Project TODAY!

New Business Solution Unlocked – Tender Services Now Available! 

AWCI Australia is excited to announce a new partnership with Tender Plus—unlocking exclusive tender support services and strategy workshops for our members.

Whether you’re new to tendering or looking to improve your win rate, this member-only solution gives you access to expert advice and resources to help you stand out.

Tender Support include:

• Strategy facilitation
• Bid management & coordination
• Writing
• Strategic reviews
• Formatting and graphic design
• Tender audit and process establishment/improvement

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has recently announced that the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will increase by 3.5% to $24.95 per hour or $948.00 per week based on a 38-hour week for Award/Agreement free employees. Additionally, all Modern Award rates of pay will also increase by at least 3.5%. This increase will take effect from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025.

This decision only impacts National System employers, and therefore does not impact employers who are covered by the: 
• Western Australia State system, or  
• Queensland State system.

Tradie Pay Rates Hit Record Highs Amidst Ongoing Skills Shortage

Australia’s ongoing skills shortage in the trades has pushed average pay rates for electricians, plumbers, and carpenters to unprecedented levels in 2025. According to industry recruitment data, hourly rates have jumped 14% year-on-year, with some specialist tradies in metropolitan areas now commanding over $120 per hour.

Changes for businesses from 1 July 2025

There will be changes to the National Minimum Wage, registration fees, superannuation, energy bill rebates and reporting obligations for business owners from 1 July 2025.

Starting the New Financial Year Right: HR Essentials for Businesses

The 2025-26 financial year has officially begun, and if you didn’t get around to updating your HR documents, contracts, or wage rates before 30 June, you’re not alone. Many businesses are still catching up, especially with multiple changes taking effect from 1 July.