Victoria’s public sector is set to see a major financial boost as the government has confirmed a 22% salary increase for all VIC public servants starting from 20 October 2025. This move, part of the state’s effort to improve workforce retention and morale, will apply across administrative, education, and health departments. The new pay scales have been officially released, outlining the increment structure and applicable job levels. Employees are advised to review their updated payslips and verify that the salary adjustments are accurately reflected in their accounts from the next pay cycle.
Why the Victorian Government Approved a 22% Salary Hike
The Victorian Government’s decision to implement a public sector pay rise comes after months of union negotiations and workforce reviews. The 22% increment aims to bring state employee salaries in line with inflation and rising living costs across major cities. The move also reflects the government’s commitment to retaining skilled workers, especially within education, healthcare, and public administration. The adjustment will be phased in gradually, starting from October 2025, and is expected to benefit thousands of employees across various departments under the VIC government workforce.
Who Qualifies for the New Pay Scales
According to official documents, all full-time, part-time, and contract-based employees within the Victorian Public Service (VPS) are eligible for the updated pay rates. The new structure will vary depending on employee grade, position, and tenure. Workers in departments like Transport, Health, Education, and Community Services will see proportional increases according to their pay bands. In addition, new employees joining after 20 October 2025 will start directly under the revised structure, ensuring fairness across all levels of the VPS pay framework.
Implementation Schedule and Payment Details
The salary adjustment schedule will take effect from the first pay cycle following 20 October 2025. The government has announced that arrears, if applicable, will be paid automatically without requiring employee requests. Employees are encouraged to verify their payroll updates and confirm their band levels with HR. The increment will also affect related allowances such as transport and housing benefits. A digital VIC payroll update portal has been made available to help staff calculate their new take-home pay and review changes to deductions and tax structures.
Department-Wise Breakdown of Salary Adjustments
The table below summarizes the key updates in the VIC public servant salary structure. Each department has specific percentage distributions and increments based on internal classification and job hierarchy. This allows equitable increases for both administrative and frontline employees. The government has assured transparency in this process, publishing all the details in the official pay scale release for 2025.
| Department | Previous Average Salary (AUD) | New Average Salary (AUD) | Increase (%) | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education and Training | 78,000 | 95,160 | 22% | 20 Oct 2025 |
| Health and Human Services | 82,000 | 100,040 | 22% | 20 Oct 2025 |
| Transport and Infrastructure | 88,500 | 108,970 | 23% | 20 Oct 2025 |
| Community and Safety | 76,500 | 93,330 | 22% | 20 Oct 2025 |
| Administrative and Clerical | 69,000 | 84,180 | 22% | 20 Oct 2025 |
FAQ 1: Who is eligible for the 22% increase?
All full-time, part-time, and contract employees within the Victorian Public Service are eligible.
FAQ 2: When will the new pay be reflected?
The revised salary will appear from the first pay cycle after 20 October 2025.
FAQ 3: Do employees need to apply for this increase?
No, the salary revision will be applied automatically by the payroll department.
FAQ 4: Will allowances and benefits also increase?
Yes, related allowances and incentives will be adjusted in proportion to the salary increase.
