Most employers responding to the survey indicated that they employed the majority of their designers, Mac operators, proofers, platemakers, high-end digital printers, wide format and four colour printers in the mid-range of salaries. Print offsiders, mid-range digital printers, finishers and general office staff were mainly paid at the lower end. Receiving the highest pay were five or more colour printers, production managers, sales reps/managers and office managers.

The extensive GASAA study provides both average and median weekly wages paid to adult production and administrative employees across 16 categories. The study also looks at the percentage number of employees being paid in bands from under $650 a week through to over $1000 a week.

The GASAA wage survey reports on gross weekly wage (before tax) for adult employees only. The study also examines the extent to which mid-week and weekend shifts are run and the average number of overtime hours worked. 44 per cent of respondents ran regular mid-week afternoon shifts, while 18 per cent ran night shifts (finishing after 1pm) on a regular basis. 37 per cent of companies replying to the survey worked regular Saturday shifts with 23 per cent also running rostered shifts on Sunday. The study examines the loadings paid for the various shifts.

The full report is available for sale to employers and their representatives by contacting GASAA on 1300 131 787.

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