Canada’s Governor General will receive another significant pay increase, marking the fifth consecutive year of raises. The increase, totaling $15,800, will be added to Mary Simon’s annual salary, continuing a pattern established since she assumed office in 2021.
This year’s adjustment brings the Governor General’s total annual salary to $393,800. This figure stands in stark contrast to the average Canadian annual income, which currently hovers around $75,000, highlighting a considerable disparity.
The raises aren’t discretionary; they are mandated by the Governor General’s Act. A complex formula, tied to fluctuations in the industrial aggregate, dictates the annual increase, ensuring a consistent upward adjustment to the salary.
Since 2019, the Governor General’s salary has climbed by $91,000. The increases have been steadily growing – $15,200 in 2025 and $11,200 in 2024 – demonstrating the impact of the legislated formula over time.
The Governor General isn’t alone in receiving automatic pay increases. Members of Parliament and Senators are also subject to annual adjustments, taking effect every April 1st. This year, those increases ranged from $8,800 to $17,600.
The base salary for MPs is $209,800, with additional compensation for those in leadership positions. Cabinet ministers, including the Speaker of the House, receive an extra $99,900 annually. The Prime Minister’s salary is double that of a standard MP, currently totaling $419,600.
Critics argue that these automatic increases are out of touch with the economic realities faced by ordinary Canadians. The latest raise for the Governor General, equating to over $1,300 per month, has sparked debate about the value received for the substantial taxpayer investment.
The financial impact of the Governor General’s raise is considerable, nearly matching the annual grocery budget for a typical Canadian family. This comparison underscores the growing concern over the perceived disconnect between public service compensation and the financial pressures experienced by many citizens.
