We have to take our cost of living to Chief and Council each fall for approval, I think this year looking at the numbers, we will be recommending 3-3.5% depending on what the inflation calculator says for September numbers. Last year we were very fortunate and received 7% for COLA adjustment.
It depends on what sector you are in. Not for profit organizations such as what Denise mentioned on this thread, those who are heavily reliant on government contracts do not have a lot of flexibility financially. My organization is unionized so increases are per the Collective agreement. To get an ideal estimate of what the wages increases should be, I would assess factors such as organizational priorities, competitiveness within the sector you are in, and other relevant factors. This forecasts from Canadian HR Reporter maybe a good resource for you which can be accessed through this link https://www.hrreporter.com/focus-areas/compensation-and-benefits/forecasts-for-salary-increase-budgets-rise-again/373308. Hope this helps.