Adult Age = Adult Age Competition Winner – Week 1

Congratulations to Kayla, this week’s branch winner in the Adult Age = Adult Wage $100 gift card competition!

Kayla wrote:

“I’m expected to act like an adult, take on the same responsibilities, and meet the same expectations — but I’m still paid less just because I’m younger. I shouldn’t have to work extra hours just to afford the basics that my older coworkers can.

The Adult Age = Adult Wage campaign is deeply important to me because it stands for fairness, equality, and respect for young workers. At 18, I am legally recognised as an adult and expected to take on adult responsibilities — paying rent, managing bills, buying food, and saving for my future. Yet despite performing the same duties and meeting the same expectations as older colleagues, I am still paid less purely because of my age.

This issue goes beyond wages; it’s about recognising the value and dignity of young adults in the workforce. We contribute just as much effort, skill, and commitment as anyone else, and it’s disheartening to know that our pay doesn’t reflect that. The removal of junior rates for workers aged 18 and over would not only bring fairness to the workplace, but also help young people achieve greater financial stability and independence as they start building their adult lives.”

Equal work deserves equal pay and it’s time our wages reflect that simple truth!