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Private Practice Award increases
For private practices under both the State and Federal Industrial Relations systems, it is important to be aware of the increase to minimum wages applicable from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 July 2025.
On 3 June 2025, the Fair Work Commission Minimum Wage Panel handed down its Annual Wage Review, awarding an increase of 3.5% to the minimum salary rates contained in all Modern Awards.
The Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission handed down the State Wage Case Decision on 12 June 2025, increasing all State award rates by 3.75%.
Where an employee is in receipt of a salary which is in excess (over award) of the applicable Minimum Rate in the Award, this increase can be absorbed into that over-award payment. This means you do not have to automatically apply an increase to your current rates of pay, but should only do so where they no longer meet the new minimum.
Members can find the updated pay summaries on our website under Private Practice Bulletins.
What to do if you receive an overpayment letter
The AMA (WA) is assisting members who have received letters from Health Support Services (HSS) alleging overpayments.
In some instances, HSS has not provided adequate details or engaged in any negotiation before demanding repayment. This is contrary to the obligations outlines in the WA Health System – Medical Practitioners – AMA Industrial Agreement 2024, particularly Clauses 59 and 64.
Clause 59 of the Agreement clearly outlines the process employers must follow when claiming an overpayment. This includes providing written details of the amount, the relevant dates, and an explanation of how the overpayment arose. It also requires the employer to negotiate in good faith with the practitioner to determine both the amount and a suitable repayment timeframe. Unsubstantiated demands or directives to “accept the overpayment” are not compliant with these obligations.
Importantly, no deductions can be made from a practitioner’s pay without their express consent, unless ordered by a court or tribunal. We encourage all members to escalate a dispute pursuant to Clause 64 of the Agreement. This provides a formal pathway to resolve the issue, including a stay on any deductions while the matter is under review. The AMA (WA) has formally written to HSS in relevant cases, seeking full audits and proper negotiation in accordance with the Agreement.
Practitioners who receive such letters are advised not to sign or agree to any deductions until the claim has been properly substantiated. If you have received an overpayment letter that you want to contest, please contact the AMA (WA) for advice and assistance, and ensure your rights under the Agreement are upheld before any further steps are taken.
Any workplace queries?
The AMA (WA) Industrial Relations team is here to help all members.
Contact us by calling 08 9273 3000. To submit an Industrial Relations query go to amawa.com.au/industrial-relations-query.