Child Labour During Labour Shortages: A Brief Look into Trends in Australia

Abuse of child labour is a rising issue facing Australia. With the ramifications of the pandemic and socioeconomic pressures mounting - labour shortages seem to be rife, and more employers are turning to children as the answer, with half a million children reported to be working amidst Australia’s labour crisis, according to Amber Shultz. More concerningly, time and time again, child labour laws in Australia have been poorly implemented, and enforcement has been inefficient, placing children in the way of severe harm and risk. The rise in abuse to children’s safety in the workplace poses the question of whether there is enough acknowledgement and recognition of the direct harms labour shortages post-pandemic pose to preserving efficient child labour laws.

It is important to recognize that labour shortages can create a situation where businesses feel pressure to cut corners and violate labour laws to meet demand. This puts young and vulnerable workers at risk of exploitation and abuse. While this doesn’t excuse the issue of companies causing children harm, it is a well-documented cycle during economic downturns, as expressed by the International Labour Organisation. The beginnings of such can already be seen in Australia and worldwide.

The Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet reported that in 2021 a fashion company was fined $25,000 for employing a 15-year-old girl to work without the proper permits and in breach of child labour laws. The girl was reportedly working up to 12 hours a day, seven days a week, and was not given meals or rest breaks. The company pleaded guilty to the charges, acknowledging that it had failed to comply with its legal obligations. It is worth considering the broader context in which this case occurred. The fashion industry is notorious for its reliance on cheap labour and sweatshop conditions, and no doubt the company was attempting to cut costs by exploiting a young and vulnerable worker.

Similarly, the Guardian reported in April that a Muffin Break franchise in Victoria was recently hit with 360 charges for child labour violations, highlighting the exploitation of underage workers in the food service industry. The owners cited labour shortages to fill shifts, the prevalent reason for their misconduct and, while not excusable, is predictable. 

It's high time that the Australian government took the necessary steps to address these shortcomings and ensure that children are protected from exploitation and abuse in the workplace. However, nothing can be done without a timely and robust reaction to the issues already here and arising. This includes vigilance from the broader community, and tighter reins being held by regulatory watchdogs.