Did you know that, as a local government worker you are getting a pay rise in July 2025 ? Thank your Union. You will also receive a $1000 bonus (for eligible workers)
However Not Every Council Gets It Right
Last year, some workers had their pay rise delayed. And for many workers the $1000 bonus wasn’t paid at all — until the USU stepped in.
“The Union chased it up and made sure I got paid.”
So please don’t assume – check.
Under the Local Government (State) Award 2023 negotiated by your union, from your first full pay period after July 1st 2025, NSW Local Government employees under the Award will get a 3% pay-rise. And in addition permanent employees who satisfy the eligibility requirements will also get a one-off bonus payment.
The wage increase and bonus were achieved following months of negotiations in 2022-23 and were possible because of the strength of our union and importantly – the support of our members. All of our Award 2023 updates can be reviewed here.
The Award increase and bonus will be paid the same as last year however we have included our FAQs for members who want to check that out.
Many members have contacted us to find out how the Award increase and in particular the bonus will work so we have answered some of your questions below. While this increase relates to local government members I am pleased to see that we are continuing to achieve some fantastic wins across all of our industries, with ongoing Enterprise Bargaining continuing in the energy sector as well as with many employers in the private sector.
Remember these aren’t gifts from your employer – they’re Union wins – secured by the USU for every Local Government worker. Negotiations commence soon for the 2026 Award. Our bargaining strength is in our members so if you know a colleague who is not a member ask them to join today!
Your questions about your bonus and payrise
Who gets the 3% pay-rise?
All NSW local government employees under the Local Government (State) Award will get the 3% pay-rise.
Who gets the one-off bonus?
All local government employees (other than casual and temporary employees) under the Local Government (State) Award with at least 12 months continuous service with their current council as of 30 June 2025 will get the bonus.
How much is the bonus?
The bonus is $1000 or 0.5% of your salary system rate of pay (whichever amount is greater) as it was on 30 June 2025.
Permanent part-time council employees will have their bonus payment pro-rata.
All bonus payments will be taxed.
When will the bonus be paid?
The one-off bonus will be included in your first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025.
When will my pay-rise start?
Your 3% pay rise will start in your first full pay period on or after 1 July 2025.
If you don’t get your bonus or pay-rise – speak to your workplace delegate or USU Organiser.
