Professionals Australia Endorses Call to Abolish Subminimum Wage

Professionals Australia endorses the Our Fair Go open letter calling for the abolition of subminimum wage provisions for disabled workers in Australia.

It is unacceptable that in 2025, workers can be paid as little as $3.12 per hour while the minimum wage is $24.95 per hour. This practice is discriminatory and undermines the fundamental principle of equal pay for equal work.

Disabled workers and their advocates have been clear: the current subminimum wage system does not support meaningful employment. When disabled people tell us these practices are exploitative, we need to listen. Policy should be informed by those with lived experience, not imposed despite their voices.

As a union representing professionals across diverse sectors, we recognise that our strength comes from the diversity of our membership. We are committed to advocating for all workers to receive fair and equitable treatment in the workplace, and recognise that this means listening when workers tell us the system is broken.

We support the transition to modern employment practices such as supported employment and customised employment that are informed by disabled workers themselves and respect the dignity and contribution of all workers.

Professionals Australia stands in solidarity with disabled workers and the movement to end these archaic practices and achieve equal pay for equal work. 



Sam Roberts
Chief Executive Officer
Professionals Australia