Low-wage rise slated

Business groups say a looming increase in WA's minimum wage could hurt already struggling employers.

More than 85,000 low-paid workers across WA will receive a $20-a-week pay increase from July 1, after the WA Industrial Relations Commission lifted the State's adult minimum wage to $665.90 yesterday.

The 3 per cent rise fixes the State minimum wage at $25 a week more than its Federal counterpart - a move the WA Chamber of Commerce and Industry said would disproportionately hit small businesses.

"With unemployment rising, we need a minimum wage that encourages employment growth," a spokesman said.