Earlier today, the Ontario government announced that the general minimum wage will increase to $17.95 per hour (previously $17.60 per hour) effective October 1, 2026. This minimum wage rate is one of the highest in Canada and applies to most provincially regulated employees.
Hicks Morley publishes a number of materials, both electronic and print, on issue-specific and sector-specific topics of interest to our clients. Our insights section has links to all of our various publications, updates and blogs, both current and historical, to keep you informed of developments in the law that impact human resources.
Federal Post
Bill C‑15: Key Developments for Employers
Bill C 15 is officially law—and if you’re a federally regulated or public sector employer, there are a few changes you’ll want to take note of. George Vuicic breaks down what has changed and provides practical takeaways in our latest article.
FTR Now
Pay Equity Hearings Tribunal Clarifies and Strengthens Rules for Maintaining Proxy Pay Equity
The Pay Equity Hearings Tribunal has released a long awaited decision clarifying how proxy pay equity must be maintained over time. The decision offers helpful direction—while leaving practical questions. Lauri Reesor outlines the impact for employers in our latest article.
FTR Now
Highlights of the 2026 Ontario Budget
Ontario’s 2026 Budget — A Plan to Protect Ontario — is here, and employers, HR teams, and pension plan administrators will want to pay attention. Read our take on what Ontario employers need to know.
Human Resources Legislative Update
New Public Sector Cybersecurity Governance & Student Digital Information Transparency Obligations in Force July 1
Ontario’s public sector is expanding cyber and digital obligations for public sector organizations on July 1. Scott Williams highlights two new regulations under the Enhancing Digital Security and Trust Act, 2024 that introduce mandatory cybersecurity governance requirements and new transparency obligations for school boards.
Human Resources Legislative Update
Federal Minimum Wage to Increase April 1, 2026
The federal government has announced that, effective April 1, 2026, the federal minimum wage will increase from $17.75 to $18.15 per hour in response to inflation.
FTR Now
Temporary Employment Insurance Relief Extended Through October 2026
EI update for employers! Temporary relief measures introduced in response to U.S. tariffs are now extended to October 10, 2026. Read our FTR Now to learn more.
Human Resources Legislative Update
Ontario Proposing Harmonized Retail Framework for Family Day and Victoria Day
Could Family Day and Victoria Day become optional shopping days across Ontario? Hicks Morley’s Rhonda B. Levy outlines what Ontario’s proposal to allow retail businesses to open may mean for municipalities and retail businesses.
FTR Now
Employment Insurance Work-Sharing Program Special Measures Extended Into 2027
Temporary special measures under the EI Work Sharing Program have been extended until March 31, 2027. Clare Wooland examines why tariff-impacted employers may want to re evaluate whether to apply for the Program.
Federal Post
Equal Wage Treatment Regulations Coming Soon
New Equal Wage Treatment Regulations are expected soon, prohibiting federally regulated employers from paying part time, temporary or agency workers less for the same work. George Vuicic provides an overview of the requirements and the limited exceptions that may be available to employers.