GBH: Plus 9.8 percent in timber construction

The next success of a functioning social partnership against inflation: wages for employees in master timber construction will increase by 9.8 percent

Vienna (OTS) – Once again, the social partners have taken responsibility and for the more than 10,000 employees in 980 companies in the master timber construction trade on February 24, 2023, a strong wage increase from May 1, 2023 agreed. This is the twelfth collective bargaining agreement for the Bau-Holz (GBH) trade union in spring – and that within just a few days. ++++

KV minimum wage of 2,440 euros achieved

The collectively agreed gross minimum entry-level wage is EUR 2,440, making it the highest compared to other sectors.

The daily allowance will be increased by 10 percent, except for 26.40 euros (maximum SI and tax exemption). As soon as politicians increase the tax-free limit of EUR 26.40, this daily allowance will also be increased. There will be a joint initiative to the responsible finance minister. Especially in times of enormous inflation, politicians are also called upon to make a contribution to cushion the ever-increasing costs. This tax-free limit has not been increased for 30 years.

Apprentice incomes increase by up to 16 percent

For apprentices in the 1st year there is a plus of 16 percent and in the 2nd year a plus of 15 percent. This is a valuable signal to make the profession even more attractive and thus counteract the shortage of skilled workers in the long term.

Additional adjustments and improvements have been made to allowances. A new wage structure was also agreed, which will lead to wage increases of up to 13.2 percent for skilled workers. This also further improves the image of the master timber construction trade.

Head of negotiations on the part of the Bau-Holz union, Federal Chairman Abg. e.g. NR Josef Muchitsch: “That was the twelfth deal in spring in the construction and timber sectors. A great conclusion was reached at eye level and with a common will. I am particularly proud of achieving the highest minimum wage and the increase in apprenticeship wages.”

Head of negotiations at the WKO Federal Guild of Timber Construction KR Siegfried Fritz: “The negotiations were very constructive and economically good on both sides. We, too, are particularly pleased with the agreement on apprentice salaries with an increase of up to 16 percent. With this degree, we are underscoring the appreciation we have for our employees.”