Several measures came into play on 1 July that will alleviate the cost-of-living crisis for Australian working families.

A rise in the minimum wage, tax cuts, the energy relief rebate, an increase in employer super contributions and an increase in paid parental leave will significantly boost take-home pay and improve workers’ personal finances, says the ACTU.

These initiatives from the Federal Government came into play on 1 July.

The 3.75 per cent rise in minimum wages started from the first full pay period after 1 July.

The government’s cost-of-living tax cuts also started from this date, providing every Australian taxpayer with a tax cut. A person on average annual earnings of $72,753 got a $1,498 annual tax cut, or an extra $28 in their weekly take-home pay packet.

The Federal Government’s $300 energy relief rebate also started to flow to households in four $75 quarterly credits.

Employer super contributions increased from 11 per cent to 11.5 per cent, under superannuation guarantee increases that unions have long campaigned for.

The Super Members Council found that the superannuation guarantee increase would deliver a 30-year-old a projected $17,570 more at retirement.

Paid parental leave also increased to 22 weeks, up from 20 weeks, from 1 July.

“July is a great month for working people after years of being hit with cost-of-living pressures made worse by big business price gouging. Finally, working people will be getting ahead again,” said ACTU Secretary Sally McManus.