Union News

Unions have welcomed a historic decision to boost the wages of community sector workers, calling on the O'Farrell Government to commit to funding the pay rise.

Today's Fair Work Australia decision will go a long way to closing the gender wage gap, with the predominantly female community sector workforce to enjoy a pay boost of between 19 and 41 per cent over eight years.

"This is an historic decision and the Australian Services Union and other unions deserve high praise for running such a spirited and intelligent campaign," Unions NSW Secretary, Mark Lennon said.

"Community sector workers perform some of the most difficult jobs in society, and today's decision finally provides recognition of that fact."

While the Federal Government has committed $2 billion to fund the payrise, the O'Farrell Government has previously opposed the much deserved pay rise.

Mr Lennon called on the Premier to show respect for the social and community services workers.

"This is a historic day for employees in this sector and the Premier needs to show he cares for the people who keep our society together," Mr Lennon said.