The provincial government says the change will benefit more than 800,000 workers across Ontario. The increase amounts to an additional $832 a year for someone working 40 hours per week at the general minimum wage.
Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini, who is also the MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South, says the adjustment is tied to the Ontario Consumer Price Index and reflects the government’s commitment to protecting workers while keeping the province competitive in the face of U.S. tariffs.
“At a time when many families are feeling the pressure of global economic uncertainty, our government will protect Ontario workers with a minimum wage increase that supports our world-class workforce,” said Piccini, in a statement.
Ontario law requires the minimum wage to be reviewed annually based on inflation.
The wage hike is part of a broader government strategy to strengthen the workforce, according to officials.
Since 2021, the province said it has invested $1.5 billion through its skills development fund, training more than one million workers for in-demand careers. Another $1 billion will reportedly be invested over the next three years under the 2025 budget.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier)