Youth Wages Plummet Amid Inflation and Mandatory Super Plans

Australia's young people are facing increasing barriers to building their futures, despite government claims of 'intergenerational equity'. The real wages of workers have fallen by 5% over the past five years, with the nominal wage increase being outpaced by inflation.

The OECD has found that Australia is one of the few countries where the real minimum wage declined in the 12 months to April 2026. RBA governor Michele Bullock points to government spending as a contributor to inflation, which is above the Reserve Bank's target band.

The Super Members Council is pushing for mandatory superannuation for all workers under 18, scrapping the requirement of working over 30 hours a week. However, this would render teens less employable and deliver few benefits, with the total value accruing to the super funds or potentially to the government.