Multiple job holders earn less

Media Release - April 18, 2019

People working second jobs in order to make ends meet are often worse off than those who are working in a single secure job.

In its reply submission to the annual wage review the peak body for working people found the record number of people who are forced to work two jobs at the same time were earning over $3,800 less a year than those working only a single job.

According to ABS data, the median income from working people who held two jobs at the same time was $44, 531, compared to $48,344 for those in one job.

Those working three, or four jobs at the same time were even worse off, earning median incomes of $36,791 and $37,706.

The ACTU finds working people are being forced into insecure work to make ends meet, but even then, they still struggling to keep up with the cost of living in this country.

According to ABS data, in 2015-2016, 15 percent of working people had to take on multiple jobs.

 

Quotes attributable to ACTU Secretary Sally McManus

“Scott Morrison and his government have created a country where low-paid, insecure work is the norm for many working people.

“He is taking us down the American path, where working people have to work two, three and even more jobs just to earn the bare minimum to cover living costs.

“As working Australians we will not accept this. Working people want to live in a country where the fair go is a reality for them now and into the future for their kids.

“Australian workers want good, secure jobs that they can rely on, no more forced casual, or sham contract jobs that barely cover the rent.

“It’s time to change the rules and deliver the fair go for all.”

The ACTU Network

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