Premier Daniel Andrews will continue to be the highest-paid state leader following a 3.5% pay increase, which raises his annual salary to nearly half a million dollars.
Starting from July 1, the Victorian leader will receive $481,190, an increase of over $16,000 from last year, as per the decision of the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal.
His compensation package includes an expense allowance of up to $60,480.
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Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan will receive $409,608, while backbench MPs will earn $198,839 annually.
According to a government spokesperson, all salary decisions are made fairly.
“We acted years ago to make sure politicians weren’t deciding their salaries, establishing the Victorian Independent Remuneration Tribunal,” the spokesperson said.
“Salary adjustments for MPs are decided by the independent tribunal.”
Opposition Leader John Pesutto will be paid slightly over $383,000.
This follows a 2.75% salary increase last year.
The tribunal was formed in 2019 when the state government introduced legislation preventing politicians from determining their own salaries and allowances.
The tribunal conducts a comprehensive review of MP salaries and allowances every four years.
When making its determinations, the tribunal takes into account various factors, including the government’s wages policy and the state’s financial position.
Karen Batt, secretary of the Community and Public Sector Union, stated that a better wages policy is necessary for all workers given the cost-of-living crisis.
“My, my, my — 3.5% increase from July 1 — you’re going to need a better wages policy for your workforce or accept what you’ve presented to us,” Batt said.
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