With so many people looking for work in Ballarat after job cuts at both small businesses and corporate organisations, little or no pay increase is just another blow.

The Australian Industry Group wants the Minimum Wage Panel to award a $10.25-a-week rise. However, the ACTU wants an increase of more than double that figure – $27-a-week. The ACTU said its proposal was modest, appropriate and necessary to prevent further erosion of low-paid workers’ living standards.

However, AiGroup has described the proposal as unrealistic and unsustainable, adding it would be unfair to those whose job prospects it would damage. In its submission to the Minimum Wage Panel, the AiGroup said the interests of those in secure jobs should not be put ahead of those looking for work and those whose jobs could be lost or hours of work reduced if the wage increase awarded by the panel this year was not modest.

The AiGroup and Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which wants an increase of no more than $5.70 a week, both oppose the ACTU’s proposal for new award provisions for an additional 0.5 per cent contribution to superannuation.

The ACTU says the employer groups’ proposed wage increases would amount to a real wage cut when taking into account inflation.

“A $27-per-week pay rise for the 1.86 million Australians workers on minimum wages will provide a $3.1 billion economic stimulus,” ACTU secretary Dave Oliver said.

With winter almost upon the city, low-paid workers and those seeking work will be bracing for even more financial woes.

Paying for the heating and electricity bills is a struggle for most low socio-economic workers, but winter time is crippling. Buying blankets, warm clothing and even food to make a warm and hearty meal is not on the agenda for many struggling families.

These people aren’t looking for a hand-out. They’re looking for a fair go. A fair go when it comes to looking for and finding work and a fair go when it comes to their wages.

Without a positive outcome to their pay packet woes, many of these people may have to swallow their pride and ask for help.