Pay rise for WA politicians

State politicians will get a 1.5 per cent rise in their base salaries, with Premier Colin Barnett’s paycheque to rise to $355,681 per annum.

In its annual determination today, the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal decided to increase the base salaries of members of parliament by 1.5 per cent, the first salary increase since July 2014.

In its consideration, the tribunal noted the increase was in-line with inflationary forecasts and the government’s public sector wages policy, which will apply for public sector employees.

Deputy Premier Liza Harvey’s salary will rise to $302,878, while other ministers’ salaries will rise to $277,320 per annum.

“The tribunal notes expectations that elected representatives will be able to respond to increasingly complex issues that impact on the state,” the tribunal’s determination stated.

“It is also important that remuneration is sufficient to attract people committed to public service.

“However, at this time, and given the state’s economic circumstances, only an economic adjustment is warranted.”

The tribunal also adjusted members’ superannuation contribution rate from 12.5 per cent to 15.4 per cent.