What impact can governments have over minimum wage? | ABC News

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has used the third and final leaders debate to criticise his opponent for championing a minimum wage rise in line with inflation.

The debate was dominated by wages and cost of living, after Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said he'd support a minimum wage increase of 5.1%.

Dr John Buchanan says governments can have a big influence on the Fair Work Commission when it comes to wage decisions.

00:00 Why have wages become an election issue?
00:25 Can governments influence the Fair Work Commission?
01:26 What impact does the decision on minimum wage have on business?
03:02 "Australia has had basically active wage suppression for the past ten years"
05:32 Why is there a disconnect between wage rises, inflation and productivity?
07:04 "The average Australian worker is producing 50% more than they did 30 years ago for the same amount of effort. Most of that productivity gain has gone to business."
08:18 What levers are available to raise wages that have been used in the past?
09:50 Do governments have influence on wages?

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