Aussie Hospo Workers Experience Harassment, Bullying and Wage Theft on the Daily

If you know, you know.

A report from the University of Queensland has given scathing insight into the experiences of hospitality workers across Australia.

Almost 400 employees were surveyed in late 2021 and early 2022, and the results are damning.

“More than 60 per cent of respondents experienced sexual harassment, verbal and psychological bullying or racial abuse, while more than 70 per cent witnessed these behaviours,” Associate Professor Richard Robinson commented.

And the main perpetrators? Customers.

Another 42 per cent reported the abuse came from their managers or supervisors.

We asked Student Edge members about their personal experiences working in hospo jobs. The answers mainly revolved around abuse they experienced within the job itself.

The report also found that 20 per cent of respondents were not receiving minimum pay rates—or weren’t sure if they were being paid fairly.

Many young people are unaware of the working rights they’re entitled to. If you feel like you’re being underpaid, or wrongly treated, check out our article with an employment lawyer.

The report is shocking, but for so many Australians, it’s a reality they live with day-to-day.

“The general public should be aware that the people serving them in restaurants, cafes, hotels and clubs are often under immense strain—and we should cut them some slack,” Dr Robinson said.

If you find yourself in a job where you’re experiencing abuse, support is available now. Call Lifeline on 131 114, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or visit ReachOut.