The Manitoba government announced on Thursday, August 18, 2022, that they intend to increase the minimum wage to $15 by October 2023.

Currently, the minimum wage in the province is $11.95 per hour. Beginning on October 1, 2022, the rate will increase to $13.50 followed by another increase on April 1, 2023, of 65 cents bringing the rate to $14.15. The 2022 consumer price index increase is expected to bring Manitoba’s minimum wage to around $15 by October 1, 2023.

This phased-in approach will ensure small businesses remain strong and continue to grow while helping workers and their families get ahead by earning bigger paycheques. Our balanced approach to increasing the minimum wage will help workers make ends meet while also recognizing the concerns of small businesses who are struggling during this difficult time,” said Premier Heather Stefanson.

Along with the minimum wage increase the province has promised to consult with small businesses to provide support programs to help them adjust to higher payroll costs.

“This wage increase will provide much-needed support to hard-working Manitobans who have been burdened by soaring cost-of-living increases,” said Labour, Consumer Protection and Government Services Minister Reg Helwer. “Manitobans have worked tirelessly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are committed to relieving some of the financial strain.”