As a Tennis fan and Australian, I find it abhorrent that ball kids are not paid in accordance with the Fair Work Act 2009. They work for free. This is wrong. This is child exploitation.

Tennis Australia is a multi-million dollar business, and paying the ball kids would only put a minor dint in their profits. The minimum wage for kids is a little over $8.50 per hour (plus possibly casual loading). These young individuals work long hours under challenging conditions to ensure the smooth running of tennis tournaments. There’s a rigorous selection process, with thousands missing out. They can work in blistering heat or until the early hours of the morning. They don’t get overtime, night shift allowance. Nothing. Just a merchandise pack, and family entry into some games. They are, in my view, employees of Tennis Australia, and should be paid a fair wage just like all other employees. It’s abuse of power.

I hear that parents are scared their children could be victimised if they complain. So it’s up to us to raise our voices and stand up for these Ball Kids.

Tennis Australia has conveniently classified Ball Kids as Volunteers. However, they are treated like employees in the sense that they’re rostered on to games, and expected to turn up. There will be repercussions if they don’t show. They also are trained in and expected to have skills, and perform in a professional manner. I believe that, in accordance with the Fair Work Act 2009, they meet the definition of employees.

It’s time for Tennis Australia to recognise the children’s hard work by paying them at least the minimum wage as mandated by law. 

Sign this petition to demand fair compensation for our ball kids!