The Ontario government has announced the province’s minimum wage will rise from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour this week. “At a time when many families are feeling the pressure of global economic uncertainty, our government will protect Ontario workers with a minimum wage increase that supports our world-class workforce,” says David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We will continue to take action to build a strong, resilient workforce ready to face whatever comes our way.”The increase applies to the general minimum wage as well as specialized rates for students, homeworkers, and hunting and fishing guides. This change brings Ontario’s minimum wage to the second-highest provincial rate in Canada. Learn more about wage rates and worker rights under the Employment Standards Act here.