As of today, Ontario is increasing its minimum wage from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, benefiting more than 700,000 workers across the province. This annual increase is tied to the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 1.9 per cent and marks the second-highest rate among provinces. A worker earning the general minimum wage and working 40 hours per week will see an annual pay increase of approximately $728. This balanced approach puts more money into workers’ pockets while helping businesses plan for the future, delivering on the government’s plan to protect Ontario and build a stronger, more competitive economy that can withstand global economic uncertainty.
“Ontario’s workforce is our greatest advantage, and their hard work, skill and dedication keep our province moving forward every day,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “As families and workers face higher costs and businesses navigate changing trade environments, today’s minimum wage increase will help workers keep pace with global economic uncertainty while maintaining a predictable approach that businesses can plan for.”
Under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), Ontario’s minimum wage is adjusted each year on October 1 based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring that wages keep pace with inflation and employers have a measured, predictable framework to plan for annual increases.
Today’s announcement marks one more way the government is supporting workers while continuing to invest in skills training and employment supports that prepare people for in-demand jobs, connect businesses with the talent they need, and help workers and employers adapt to a changing economy. Through Skills Advance Ontario, the federal and provincial governments are supporting industry-led partnerships that help jobseekers and workers gain in-demand skills while helping employers address workforce and skills needs in key sectors of the economy. The province has also expanded POWER Centres and Better Jobs Ontario to provide improved retraining and employment assistance for people seeking a rewarding, in-demand job.
Together, these measures are strengthening Ontario’s domestic workforce and building an economy that can withstand future challenges, remain competitive and create lasting opportunities across the province.
