Photo courtesy of: davidpiccinimpp.ca
Ontario’s minimum wage has officially increased from $16.55 to $17.20 per hour, a move expected to benefit nearly one million workers across the province.
Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP David Piccini, who is also the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, made the announcement Tuesday.
The 3.9 per cent increase, effective today, is tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and is part of the province’s strategy to ensure wages keep pace with the cost of living. For a worker putting in a 40-hour week, the raise equates to an extra $1,355 annually, Piccini noted in his statement.
“Ontario’s minimum wage is one of the highest in the country,” Piccini said, emphasizing that the increase balances the needs of both workers and businesses.
Piccini also highlighted recent legislation, the Working for Workers Four Act, passed in 2024, which is designed to help employees move from minimum wage positions to higher-paying jobs with better benefits.
While the province views minimum wage jobs as entry-level positions, Piccini underscored that the government is committed to ensuring they serve as stepping stones to more lucrative careers.
As Ontario moves forward with these changes, the government remains committed to building a stronger economy and supporting workers in every sector, ensuring the province continues to be “the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
