EP3 is not 8-12k, this was the range some years back. The current range is more like 9k+ to 13k.

Comparison to MX8/9 is also not fair as total package is significantly different. MX8/9 total package is usually ~20 months whereas Grade 2/1 normally goes for 15-16 months only. Also selected positions in MX8/9 level are entitled to special bonuses on top of the normal publicize ones that can potentially add another 2-3 months on top of 20 months.