Union Criticises Lack of Pay Increase Strategy
The 2026 Federal Budget has drawn criticism for not allocating funds for Australian Public Service (APS) pay rises beyond existing enterprise agreements. This omission has led to union concerns about fair compensation for public sector workers.
Professionals Australia, representing STEM professionals in the APS, expressed dissatisfaction. Years of funding cuts and below-inflation wage increases have left many workers up to 25% behind in real wage terms.
Ashley Sutherland, Lead Organiser at Professionals Australia, stated that the budget reflects a troubling lack of commitment to public sector workers. Sutherland remarked, “A government that understands the critical role of a capable, high-performing public service should also recognise the need to restore real wages.”
Since public sector STEM professionals have endured wage suppression while providing crucial services, Sutherland warned that without a plan for wage growth, the APS risks losing essential expertise. “Failing to account for this in the forward estimates sends a clear message that the Government lacks any real commitment to rebuilding and retaining professional capability in the APS,” Sutherland added.
Union Calls for Urgent Government Action
Professionals Australia reports an increase in APS STEM professionals joining the union, indicating widespread concern and a collective effort to address declining real wages. The union is calling on the Government to commit to a long-term plan for sustained above-inflation pay increases, which they believe is essential for restoring confidence in the future of the APS workforce.
Meanwhile, Professionals Australia highlights that at a time when the Government aims to strengthen in-house capability and reduce reliance on external consultants, competitive and fair remuneration is crucial. Without timely intervention, these ambitions may be undermined by inadequate remuneration strategies.
Ashley Sutherland concluded that ignoring this reality will only undermine the Government’s ambitions. Professionals Australia is urging for a commitment to deliver real wage growth and restore fairness to public sector pay.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:07 pm
