Strongest annual real wages growth in five years

New data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that annual real wages have now grown for seven consecutive quarters under the Albanese Labor Government.

We’ve recorded the strongest annual real wages growth in five years and the longest run of real wages growth above 0.7 per cent in a decade, according to today’s figures.

Real wages were falling sharpy under the Liberals, but today’s figures confirm they are growing strongly again under Labor.

Growth in real wages helps workers with the cost of living and helps them get ahead.

The wage price index grew 0.8 per cent in the June quarter 2025, to be 3.4 per cent higher through the year.

Real wages grew 1.3 per cent through the year to the June quarter 2025.

This is the strongest annual real wages growth since June 2020.

Annual real wages have now been growing by 0.7 per cent or more for four consecutive quarters, which is the longest run of real wage growth above that rate since 2015.

Since we came to Government, average annualised nominal wages have been growing at 3.7 per cent, much higher than the 2.2 per cent under our predecessors.

These numbers are a really positive sign that wages are growing strongly and sustainably as a result of our efforts.

Australians voted for higher wages at the election, and that’s what we’re delivering.

Our economic plan is designed to help Australians earn more and keep more of what they earn with tax cuts and higher wages and today’s figures show we’re making meaningful progress.

We’re acting to boost wages, close the gender pay gap, deliver workplace relations reforms and secure pay rises for some of the lowest‑paid workers in our community. Our support for the lowest paid workers means minimum wage earners are now earning more than $175 per week more than when we came to government.

At the same time, we’ve overseen the creation of more than 1.1 million jobs and stronger employment growth than any major advanced economy.

Under Labor, real wages are up, unemployment is low, inflation is down, interest rates are falling, every taxpayer is getting a tax cut and living standards are growing again in our economy.

We know there’s more to do because Australians are still under pressure and the global economy is uncertain and unpredictable.

The best defence against global volatility and the best way to lift wages and living standards over the long term is with a more productive economy, a stronger budget, and more resilience.

That’s why we’re building consensus on long term economic reform around these three priorities at the Economic Reform Roundtable next week.