One-Third of Young Aussie Workers Exploited, Paid in Food or Denied Breaks

A University of Melbourne study reveals over one-third of young Australian workers face exploitation, with employers paying below the minimum wage, denying breaks, or offering food instead of wages. Released on July 15, 2025, the research highlights systemic issues in workplace fairness, particularly for vulnerable youth in insecure jobs.

The study, surveying 2,814 workers under 30, paints a grim picture of workplace practices. One-third reported earning $15 per hour or less, well below the national minimum wage of $24.95 set by the Fair Work Commission (FWC). Nearly one in three were denied mandatory superannuation contributions, and over one-third were barred from taking entitled breaks. Shockingly, almost 10% received food or products in lieu of pay, while two-thirds were forced to cover work-related costs like uniforms or training. Professor John Howe, the study’s lead, told AAP, “Wage theft is absolutely rife,” noting young workers’ inexperience and fear of job loss make them easy targets. Industries like hospitality, agriculture, and even unionized sectors like mining showed widespread violations, with utilities and forestry also affected.

Young workers, especially overseas students, migrants, and women, face heightened risks due to their reliance on precarious roles. With youth unemployment at 9.2%—over double the national rate of 4.1%—many hesitate to report abuses, fearing retaliation. A 22-year-old worker, Ms. McDowall, shared with AAP, “I know more people my age in hospitality who’ve had wages stolen than haven’t.” The study also found one-third of respondents were unpaid for trial shifts, a practice that exploits jobseekers’ desperation.

Critics argue the current Labor government’s regulatory framework falls short, placing the burden on young workers to report violations rather than enforcing proactive oversight. The FWC, tasked with workplace compliance, lacks the resources to tackle this epidemic effectively, leaving many employers unpunished. The report calls for better education on workers’ rights and stronger regulatory action to protect vulnerable employees. As Australia grapples with these findings, the exploitation of its youngest workers demands urgent reform to ensure fair pay and dignity in the workplace.