A Path to Better Pay and Skills
Let’s face it: life in Singapore isn’t cheap, and everyone wants to make a good living. However, for many low-wage workers, incomes remained constant for years, even as everything else increased in price.
To address this, the Singapore government created the Progressive Wage Model (PWM), a rational and systematic approach to increasing salaries for workers in critical but frequently disregarded jobs.
And guess what? It works. According to The Straits Times, lower-income workers’ incomes have increased faster than the national average, even outperforming the rising cost of living. That implies actual development, not just numbers on paper.
PWM isn’t about a lack of possibilities; it’s about making them fair and available to everyone. Whether you’re a cleaner, driver, or administrative assistant, PWM allows you to improve your talents while earning more money.
In this article, we’ll explain what PWM means and how it can help you.
What Is the Progressive Wage Model (PWM)?
Why Did Singapore Start PWM?
Back in 2012, numerous employees in sectors such as cleaning, security, and landscaping found themselves trapped in low-wage positions for extended periods. Despite their hard work, their salaries remained stagnant. The government aimed to address this issue—while also considering the needs of businesses. This led to the creation of PWM.
PWM operates more like a wage ladder. Your pay increases as you acquire new skills and take on additional responsibilities.
PWMs Currently in Effect
| Sector / Occupational PW | PWM Requirements Took Effect From |
| Cleaning sector | 1 September 2014 1 September 2022 (extension to in-house cleaners) |
| Security sector | 1 September 2016 1 September 2022 (extension to in-house security officers) |
| Landscape sector | 30 June 2016 1 September 2022 (extension to in-house landscape maintenance employees) |
| Lift and escalator sector | 1 May 2019 |
| Retail sector | 1 September 2022 |
| Food services sector | 1 March 2023 |
| Occupational PW for administrators and drivers | 1 March 2023 |
| Waste management sector | 1 July 2023 |
How Does PWM Work?
The Progressive Wage Model (PWM) is kind of like a step-by-step career guide. It helps you build your skills and earn more as you go. Instead of being stuck in the same job with the same pay, PWM gives you a way to grow.
- Start with a structured wage level based on your job role.
- Attend approved WSQ training courses to gain new, relevant skills.
- Boost your productivity and value at work with your upgraded skills.
- Move into higher job roles—like a senior admin or team leader.
- Earn more with each step, as your pay increases alongside your skills.
In short, PWM sets clear milestones for both wages and skills. Through targeted training like WSQ courses, workers not only improve how they work but also contribute more to the company’s success. It’s a win-win—for employees aiming to progress, and for businesses looking to strengthen their workforce.
As of 2024, the Progressive Wage Model supports more than 155,000 lower-wage workers across nine sectors and occupations. Out of this, around 48,600 are covered under Occupational Progressive Wages (OPW).
The Importance of PWM for Workers and Employers
For Workers:
The Progressive Wage Model (PWM) isn’t just about getting a raise—it’s about giving you a clear, step-by-step career path. Especially under Occupational Progressive Wages (OPW), the training and job requirements are well-defined and tailored to each occupation.
If you’re working in roles like administrators and drivers, you’ll need to complete specific training to move up the ladder—and that’s where WSQ courses come in.
Here’s how it helps:
- You learn relevant, job-specific skills
- Your confidence grows as you improve
- You qualify for higher pay and promotions
For Employers
PWM isn’t optional—it’s a government-mandated framework aimed at uplifting lower-wage workers. By complying with PWM requirements, businesses not only stay aligned with national employment policies but also benefit from a more skilled and productive workforce.
Want to Know How Training Boosts Business? Read This: Why Companies Should Invest in WSQ Training
WSQ Courses: A Key Part of PWM
WSQ stands for Workforce Skills Qualifications—a national credentialing system that offers a wide range of courses, from bite-sized modules to full diplomas and even professional certifications.
Under PWM, workers are required to complete specific WSQ courses tied directly to their roles. These are carefully designed to match industry needs, ensuring that employees gain relevant skills that translate into better job performance and higher wages.
But the benefits of WSQ go beyond just meeting PWM requirements. Workers can continue upskilling to stay competitive in the job market and open doors to new career paths.
Want To Know Which Digital Skills Make You More Employable?
Read More: Digital Skills That Instantly Make You More Employable
WSQ Courses for OPW Jobs
At InfoTech Academy, we offer WSQ courses specifically tailored for Occupational Progressive Wage (OPW) roles for administrative staff and drivers.
If you’re newly hired in one of these positions, attending an approved WSQ course is not just a bonus—it’s a requirement. These courses help ensure that all employees meet the skills standards set by the Progressive Wage Model.
Final Thoughts
The Progressive Wage Model isn’t just about better pay—it’s about creating a more sustainable and inclusive future for Singapore’s workforce. By setting clear wage ladders and linking them to skills, PWM ensures that lower-wage workers aren’t left behind as industries grow and evolve.
But it doesn’t stop there. The journey doesn’t end with just meeting the minimum training requirements. In today’s fast-changing world, lifelong learning is key. Exploring additional courses—be it in digital skills, communication, or leadership—can open even more doors for career advancement and personal growth.
At InfoTech Academy, we’re here to support every step of that journey—from meeting OPW Training Requirements to upskilling with our WSQ Courses. Because when workers grow, businesses thrive, and society moves forward together.
I’ve always been drawn to the power of writing! As a content writer, I love the challenge of finding the right words to capture the essence of HR, payroll, and accounting software. I enjoy breaking down complex concepts, making technical information easy to understand, and helping businesses see the real impact of the right tools.