Article written by Clare Jones (B Occ Thy)

Based on information published by Speech Pathology Australia and Industry Legal

 What you need to know

This article summarises key changes to speech pathologists’ minimum wages and classification structure under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award (HPSS Award), based on information published by Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) and Industry Legal.

From 30 June 2026, changes will be introduced following a Fair Work Commission review which found that minimum wages for health professionals have been historically undervalued, including due to gender-based assumptions.

Background to the changes

The Fair Work Commission review led to a redesign of the classification structure and associated minimum wage rates under the HPSS Award.

Speech Pathology Australia has advocated throughout this process for fairer wage settings and a classification framework that better reflects the qualifications, experience, and scope of practice of speech pathologists.

SPA also notes the contributions of speech pathologists who provided evidence about their roles through union and professional submissions during the review.

Advocacy and ongoing considerations

SPA continues to advocate for:

• Government support to assist small businesses during the transition period
• Increases to NDIS therapy price limits in line with wage increases

These issues have been raised with the NDIA, relevant government ministers, and included in SPA’s Federal Pre-Budget submission.

Draft determination and consultation process

Due to the complexity of the changes, the Fair Work Commission will release a draft determination for public consultation prior to finalisation.

This stage will allow stakeholders to:

• Review the proposed structure
• Identify technical or drafting issues
• Provide feedback before final implementation

Implementation timeline

The revised classification structure and wage increases will be implemented in five stages, approximately 12 months apart.

The changes will begin on 30 June 2026 and are scheduled to conclude in 2030. Each stage will involve incremental increases to minimum wage rates under the new framework.

What employers should prepare for

While final details are still pending, employers covered by the HPSS Award are encouraged to begin preparation.

This includes:

• Classification review: assessing current staff roles against the proposed classification descriptors to determine likely transitions.
• Qualification audit: confirming AQF-level qualifications for each employee to ensure correct alignment under the new structure.
• Role and scope planning: considering how supervisory duties and expanded clinical roles will be recognised and remunerated.
• Budget forecasting: planning for staged wage increases commencing from 30 June 2026.

Key pay clarification

It is important to note that the Award sets minimum rates only.

This means:

• Pay increases are only required if an employee’s current rate falls below the new minimum
• If current pay already meets or exceeds the new minimum, no adjustment is required at that stage

Consultation and support available

Further consultation opportunities will be available once the draft determination is released.

SPA, in partnership with Industry Legal, provides members with access to workplace relations and legal support, including:

• A complimentary initial 30-minute consultation
• Discounted advisory services
• Employment and commercial law guidance

Contact

Industry Legal
Phone: 1300 736 435
Email: spa@industrylegal.com.au

Members should have their SPA membership number available when contacting.

Further updates will be provided once final decisions are confirmed by the Fair Work Commission.

As demand for Speech Pathologist continues to grow across Australia, Medirecruit plays a key role in connecting skilled clinicians with hospitals, schools, community organisations and private practices. By working closely with both employers and practitioners, we help ensure people receive timely, high-quality care while supporting a sustainable and responsive healthcare workforce.

To find out more about how we can support your recruitment needs or career goals, contact Clare at clare@medirecruit.com or go to www.medirecruit.com

Disclaimer

This article is based on information published by Speech Pathology Australia and is intended for general information purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.