Super On Every Dollar

The SDA’s ‘Super on Every Dollar’ campaign seeks to ensure that all workers under 18 receive superannuation payments for every hour they work, which is only fair. The SDA’s ‘Super on Every Dollar’ campaign seeks to ensure that all workers under 18 receive superannuation payments for every hour they work, which is only fair. 

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About the campaign

The Super on Every Dollar campaign aims to address the exclusion of under-18s from receiving superannuation, which requires them to work at least 30 hours a week. Many young workers (16-35) are unaware of this inequity and are frustrated when they learn about it, particularly the gender super gap. The campaign highlights the impact on young women, who face cumulative financial disadvantages. With super contributions now nearing 12%, the campaign advocates for extending super to all workers, regardless of age or hours worked, ensuring every dollar earned goes toward securing a better retirement future.

key progress

The SDA’s ‘Super on Every Dollar’ campaign seeks to ensure that all workers under 18 receive superannuation payments for every hour they work, which is only fair. Under current rules, under-18s must work at least 30 hours a week to qualify for superannuation, creating inconsistencies and confusion. 

A survey revealed that 55% of young workers mistakenly believe that all under-18s receive super. When superannuation was first introduced in the 1990s, the super guarantee was lower, and payments were made by cheque with administrative fees. These conditions no longer apply, as today’s superannuation rates are higher and cheque fees are gone. This is particularly important for young women, who are more likely to take time off in the future for childcare, which widens the superannuation gap between men and women. 

Starting superannuation payments early can significantly improve retirement savings. There is no reason not to provide superannuation to workers under 18 today. Young workers could be missing out on hundreds of dollars in superannuation annually, which adds up over time. 

You can find out more about this campaign here.

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