Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Superannuation Legislation Amendment (Fair Super for Young Workers) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Wednesday 12 August 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned a bill introduced by the Australian Greens to remove exemptions preventing young workers under 18 from receiving compulsory superannuation contributions regardless of hours worked. Senator Pocock argued that the current system unfairly excludes hundreds of thousands of teenagers, particularly women, and benefits large corporations at the expense of workers' retirement security. She highlighted that public support for the change is high and that previous concerns about small balances are no longer valid due to recent reforms. The debate was adjourned after the second reading speech was delivered, with no other members speaking at this stage.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned after Senator Pocock delivered her second reading speech and sought leave to continue remarks later.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Barbara Pocock (SA) (Australian Greens) Greens

Senator Pocock moved that the bill be read a second time, arguing that the superannuation system should be universal and include all workers regardless of age or hours worked. Pocock stated that 530,000 teenage workers currently miss out on $411 million in superannuation annually due to an exemption requiring them to work more than 30 hours a week. Pocock contended that this exclusion disproportionately affects young women and reinforces long-term inequality, while allowing large corporations to avoid paying entitlements. Pocock noted that 73% of Australians support the change and that modelling indicates early contributions could improve retirement outcomes by $11,000 through compound returns. The senator called on the Labor Government to align with its own platform and support the bill to ensure fairness for young workers.