Minimum wage going up in Alberta to $11.20 Oct. 1

Alberta will take the first step towards a $15 per hour minimum wage by 2018.
Minimum wage goes up Oct. 1.

Alberta’s general minimum wage will increase to $11.20 from $10.20 per hour. The liquor server minimum wage will rise to $10.70 from $9.20 per hour in the first of two steps to eliminate the differential rate altogether in 2016.

“Alberta’s minimum wage is currently the lowest in the country, yet we have one of the highest costs of living. We promised Albertans we would raise minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2018, and we will stick to that promise. We’re taking a significant step towards our goal for 2015 and will continue this path in future years,” said Alberta Premier Rachel Notley, in a media release.

“We have listened closely to Albertans and have taken their views and suggestions into account. Our plan includes a $1 increase to the general minimum wage this year, plus a two-year phase out of the liquor server rate. We will continue to consult with stakeholders as we move forward on our goal over the next three years,” said Lori Sigurdson, Alberta minister of jobs, skills, training and labour, in a recent media release.

Minimum wage increases 2015
* Current – $10.20 per hour (general minimum wage) and $9.20 per hour (liquor server minimum wage)
* Oct. 1, 2015 – $11.20 per hour (general minimum wage)
* Oct. 1, 2015 – $10.70 per hour (liquor server minimum wage)

Employers and employees with questions about minimum wages can contact the Employment Standards Contact Centre at 780-427-3731, or toll-free at 1-877-427-3731 or visit work.alberta.ca/minimumwage.