It’s a tight labour market, so finding the right team is difficult, once you’ve found someone you’ll have to negotiate their wage or salary cos its unlikely they’ve agreed to work for you for free (and it would probably be illegal if they did).
The National Minimum Wage in Australia is currently $24.10 p/h or $915.90 p/w for workers not covered by an award. (You did notice the use of the word minimum.) This is likely to increase again in 2 months time, awards usually increase for the first full pay period after 1st July each year.
You can search FairWork Pay and Conditions Tool https://www.fairwork.gov.au/pay-and-wages/minimum-wages to determine the minimum you can pay each employee based on the award and their skill level.
From 1 January 2025, intentional underpayment of wages or entitlements can be a criminal offence. Prosecution can result in monetary fines, prison time, or both – everyone involved in the HR process needs to be aware of the risks. Read more here: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/workplace-laws/legislation-changes/closing-loopholes/criminalising-wage-underpayments-and-other-issues
There is more to wages than just an hourly rate. Much more.
You can review all of the National Employment Standards here. https://www.fairwork.gov.au/employment-conditions/national-employment-standards
If you aren’t sure if you are paying a worthy wage, investigate before FairWork does! Get an expert to help you, winging it isn’t an option.
