Politics

Legislation enacting sleepover pay deal passes first hurdle

22:11 pm on 27 September 2011

Legislation enacting the deal on overnight pay rates for disability care workers passed its first reading under urgency on Tuesday.

Under its agreement with unions and care providers, the Government will contribute $90 million towards phasing in minimum rates and $27.5 million towards backpay.

Some 3700 sleepover workers will go from being paid $34 for a nine-hour shift to $117 by the end of next year.

Health Minister Tony Ryall says the Government would like to pass the bill before Parliament rises on 6 October before the general election so workers can receive the new pay rate by Christmas.

Mr Ryall says there will be a shortened select committee process, with hearings likely to be held at Parliament on Wednesday.

The general election will be held on 26 November.