The SDA has secured a big win for young workers, with the Fair Work Commission handing down its decision in the SDA’s Adult Age = Adult Wage case.
After a long campaign by the SDA, this result is a historic win for young workers, with the commission agreeing to abolish junior rates for 18, 19 and 20-year-olds in the retail, fast food and pharmacy Awards.
For years, adult workers under 21 have been paid significantly less than their older colleagues, despite the fact that many of these workers have years of experience and take on the same responsibilities as any other team member. They also face the same cost-of-living pressures, without any “discount” on essentials like rent, fuel, or groceries.
This decision means young adults working in retail, fast food and pharmacy can no longer be paid less simply because of their age. 18 year olds can vote, drive and put their lives on the line for their country – they deserve to be paid as an adult.
What this means for young workers
This change will come into effect for workers aged 18-20 with more than 6 months service over the next four years.
Once fully implemented, some workers could see pay increases of up to almost $10 per hour, depending on their age, employment type, and the timing of the changes.
For the more than 1.5 million Australians working across retail, fast food and pharmacy, many of whom are under 21. this represents a significant and long-overdue boost to their pay.
Workers covered by SDA-negotiated Enterprise Agreements will receive further advice on how the decision affects them, with the union committed to ensuring members receive the full benefit of this win.
This victory is the result of SDA members standing together to make change, and we send our thanks to all the SDA members, shop stewards and officials throughout the country who have put their voice behind the campaign.
Whether you signed the petition, took a photo or spoke on camera – you helped achieve this win for young workers.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS:
HOW THIS WIN WILL HELP YOUNG SDA MEMBERS
I work as many hours as i can, just trying to get by, but in my workplace i’m making $6 less an hour than the 21+ staff. I have all the same financial responsibilities for someone in their 20’s I pay half the rent at my house, I pay for all my car expenses, groceries. And all other bills. It just seems unfair to me that I have to work almost twice as hard just to get by.
Maia – Young SDA Member
Once being 18 , found it hard moving out of home and surviving on paying rent , food , electric , clothing , car payments and heap more
No one can save money with these kind of bills on low income .
Everyone is equal we all work hard and deserve a higher pay , otherwise how are we able to survive the cost of livingDenise – Young SDA Member
When you reach the age of eighteen you are formally recognized as someone who can now have more of a say, you have earnt the passage. You can now vote. Given such a huge responsibility in having a say. Therefore, it is important that you are treated paid as such. You are no longer a child but someone who can make a difference.
Josephine – Young SDA Member
The decision to provide adult wages to 18, 19, and 20-year-olds will make a meaningful difference, especially for those who are already carrying real financial responsibilities. For people like me, who are the main provider, earning a fair, adult rate of pay means being better equipped to cover essential costs like rent, groceries, transport, and bills in an economy where prices keep rising. Instead of constantly feeling stretched or having to choose between necessities, it creates a more stable foundation to manage everyday living expenses with less stress. It also reflects the reality that many young adults are not financially dependent anymore and are contributing just as much as older workers.
Liz – Young SDA Member