The SDA, which represents more young workers than any other union, is encouraging employers to act without delay now that the Fair Work Commission has delivered its decision affirming adult rates of pay for those 18 years and older working in retail, fast food and pharmacies.
On Wednesday the FWC rejected submissions from employer representatives to delay its preliminary decision timeline to align pay rates for around half a million 18 to 20 year olds with the wages enjoyed by older adults.
Until the Commission’s landmark decision in March workers in fast food and pharmacy aged 20 only had to be paid 90 percent of the award rate – in retail they were paid 100% if they had 6 months service. In all three industries the rates of pay were 19 year olds 80 percent and 18 year olds 70 percent.
These increases awarded by the FWC align with SDA and community expectations.
Firms which would like to be seen as employers of choice should act without delay to treat all over 18s like all other adults by paying superannuation voluntarily to under 18s. Some companies already do this under SDA Agreements.
Quotes from Gerard Dwyer, National Secretary the SDA:
“The FWC decision was a landmark, up there with the introduction of equal pay for women in the 1970s.
“Discounting wages for young adults who receive no corresponding discounts on their rent, food or petrol will be a thing of the past in these three industries.
“18 year olds can vote, drive and put their lives on the line for their country. 18 year olds are adults. They struggle with the same cost of living pressures as every other adult worker.
“They do not receive a discount on their rent or bills because they happen to be 18. They should be paid the same as other adults.
“Employers should accept the decision and now prepare their payrolls to reflect the new standards for young adult Australians.”
Contact: Jim Middleton 0418 627066