Labor has refused to support Greens' amendments to grant all young workers the right to superannuation contributions from their employers.
The Australian Greens moved an amendment on Tuesday 4 November to ensure that 18-year-old workers are paid super contributions regardless of their hours worked. Labor has rejected this change.
To be eligible for super, under 18s need to work at least 30 hours a week for the same employer. However, most young people juggle paid work with school and study commitments and, therefore, are unable to reach the required 30 hours per week. As a result, hundreds of thousands of young workers are missing out on super.
The Greens want to ensure that super contributions are extended to all under-18s, so that every young person is paid super on every dollar they earn, no matter how many hours they work.
As stated by Australian Greens spokesperson for finance, employment and workplace relations, Senator Barbara Pocock:
"Labor had a chance to back young workers so that all of them are paid super contributions from their employers regardless of their hours. Instead they voted against it.
"For too long, workers under 18 have been missing out on super - setting them back financially and costing them thousands early in their careers."
"The majority of young people (92 per cent) work fewer than 30 hours a week because of school and study commitments, meaning they miss out on super. That's unfair. Young people shouldn't be penalised for going to school or studying.
"The Greens want super contributions extended to all under-18s, ensuring every young person is paid super on every dollar they earn, no matter how many hours they work.
"Under 18s pay taxes and contribute to our economy, so why shouldn't they receive super?
"Excluding young people from super only makes it harder to get ahead - robbing them of thousands in retirement savings and financial security.
"The Greens believe superannuation should be a universal right. Every worker deserves super, whether they're 16 or 60-years-old, and should receive the same financial rights as everyone else whether part-time or full-time.
"By including all workers under 18 in the superannuation system, we can set young people up for a more secure retirement while recognising their valuable contribution to the workforce."
