Variation in wages

Variation in wages

We recognise the significant variation in Tutor and Coordinator wages across sites, and we understand the impact this can have on fairness, recruitment, retention, and workforce stability. It is important feedback and reflects the complexity of working across diverse Delivery Partners with different enterprise agreements and HR frameworks.

Employment Conditions Are Set Locally - HIPPY Australia cannot set mandatory minimum wages because Delivery Partners are the legal employers. Providers are required to classify roles according to their own industrial instruments (SCHADS, Local Government awards, enterprise agreements, etc.). Because of this, wage levels will naturally vary.

Timing Matters: We Are Entering a Period of Program Review - We acknowledge there is value in providing national guidance on; indicative award classifications and recommended pay ranges, consistency in how Tutor and Coordinator roles are understood. However, as we move into a formal review and evaluation of HIPPY in preparation for future government funding arrangements, our immediate priority is ensuring stability, clarity, and strong evidence of impact. Developing detailed national wage or classification guidance would require significant time, consultation, and coordination across Delivery Partners. This work may not be the most efficient use of resources at this stage, particularly while the future of the program is under review.

Once future funding arrangements are confirmed, this issue can be revisited as part of a broader workforce strategy. Post-review, we will be in a stronger position to:

• consult with Delivery Partners
• clarify consistent role expectations
• develop national guidance
• align roles and pay levels with program requirements.

This ensures the work is done at the right time and embedded within longer-term planning.

MARCH 2026