Yellowknife — March 11, 2021
Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, R.J. Simpson announced today an increase to the Northwest Territories (NWT) Minimum Wage.
Effective September 1, 2021, the minimum wage will increase from $13.46 per hour to $15.20 per hour.
This decision was informed by research and options provided by the Minimum Wage Committee, which was established in 2013 to advise the Minister of Education Culture and Employment. The Minimum Wage Committee is comprised of representatives from business, labour and community organizations across the territory.
The minimum wage rate in the NWT was last increased in 2018 and was set at a rate of $13.46 per hour. Since that time, the cost of living and the average hourly wage in the NWT have risen and minimum wage earners have fallen behind. With the rate change, the Northwest Territories will now have the second highest minimum wage in Canada, after Nunavut.
Quote
“The GNWT is committed to striking a balance between maintaining fair and competitive wage rates while encouraging economic activity and supporting small businesses. By providing workers across the territory with a minimum wage more suitable to the cost of living, and businesses the option to attract more workers for minimum wage positions - I am confident that this increase will benefit both NWT workers and businesses.”
- R.J. Simpson, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment
Quick facts
- The minimum wage was last increased in 2018. Since that time, the cost of living and the average hourly wage have risen.
- In 2013, the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment appointed a Minimum Wage Committee comprised of representatives from business, labour and community organizations across the territory.
- To ensure the NWT’s minimum wage continues to work for employees and employers, the minimum wage rate is reviewed every two years.
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Media Requests, please contact:
Melissa Bannister
Senior Communications Advisor
Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories