Navigating the 2026 SCHADS Award Changes

The SCHADS Award is entering a period of major reform, with significant changes to pay structures, classification frameworks, and operational rules rolling out across 2026 and 2027.

Join Employment Hero’s Global Head of HR Advisory, Simon Obee, and HR Advisory Manager, Neath Sokhom, as they break down the latest SCHADS Award developments, explain what they mean in practice, and share practical guidance to help you stay compliant as the changes come into effect.

You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of:

• Essential SCHADS Award fundamentals:
  • A refresher on some key award clauses and core operational provisions that form the baseline of everyday compliance.
• Recent changes now in effect:
  • New sleepover rules (effective 1 June 2026) and how they impact shift definitions, overtime, and shift loadings.
• Upcoming wage and classification reforms:
  • The 15% pay rise for disability workers in home care, commencing 1 October 2026, with a secondary increase coming on 1 October 2027.
  • The new classification structure replacing Schedules B, C, E, and F, coming into effect on 1 October 2027.
  • New rules around pay point progression across classification streams.
  • Pay protection rules ensuring existing employees earning above the new classification rates do not experience a reduction in pay.
• Practical tips to prepare:
  • Actionable steps to update payroll configurations, audit existing rates, adjust rostering practices, and update employment documentation.

Whether you’re looking for a refresher on the fundamentals or preparing for the reforms ahead, this session will equip employers across social, community, home care and disability services with the practical guidance and confidence to navigate the next phase of the SCHADS Award.

Disclaimer: The information in this webinar is current as at 10th September, and has been prepared by Employment Hero Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (Employment Hero). The views expressed in this webinar are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. The Information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. Employment Hero does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising either directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this webinar. You should undertake your own research and to seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this webinar.