This is a huge step towards narrowing the gender pay gap, as the majority of workers in the community sector are women.

The decision covers carers, social workers, youth workers and lawyers and those women helping the most vulnerable in the Australia, and will be phrased over the next eight years.

AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE FOR WOMEN in 2011: $1165
AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE FOR MEN in 2011: $1417

Source: ComSec

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has already committed $2 billion of federal funds to the pay increases.

"It's a historic decision because it means more money in the pockets for workers who care for those who most need our help," she said.

"Many of them are women, and many of them are low-paid, working hard to make ends meet."

Women’s Health has to say it about time! We know how important it is to enjoy your career and to be treated as an equal at your workplace – we are dedicating our next month’s issue to this very topic. Our “Love your work” issue is out February 20th.