Living And Working Conditions In Australia

The living and working conditions in Australia, at the start of the century depended very much on which social class a person belonged to because the society followed ‘laissez-faire’ policies, that is, the government interfered little in economic affairs and left people to look after themselves. Therefore, between the rich and the poor there were enormous differences in living conditions such as education, health and hygiene and in particular leisure. For average Australians work was very laborious, and in some cases even dangerous, and many employees were treated no better than slaves. Even though working conditions, hours and wages were harsh, they were much better than those of other industrial countries, making Australia known as a ‘working
Sundays and Saturday afternoon were special days for people because shops and factories were closed and people had time for relaxation and entertainment. However, for married women, especially those of the working class, the labour-intensive nature of housework allowed them little time to be involved in any activities apart from the home and family. Reading was a favourite leisure activity. Books and newspapers became more widely available and the works of such authors as Charles Dickens were eagerly after. Music was another home entertainment that was widely enjoyed. Families who could afford to own a piano would regularly gather for sing-alongs after the evening meal. Card games such as cribbage and euchre were also popular. People looking for entertainment outside the home could attend live theatre productions, musical recitals or the circus. Dancing was very popular. Concert and dance halls were built near hotels and attracted large numbers of people, especially on Saturday afternoons. Alcohol consumption was a favourite pastime and Australians were considered heavy drinkers. Hotels were busy places, especially on Saturday afternoons after the workers finished their jobs. Gambling was another from of entertainment for all classes. Betting was only legal at the racetrack itself, there was no TAB. Away from the track, SP
Most people had to work long hours for little pay. There was little government protection of working people and workers signed individual contacts that usually favoured the employer. Even when they had a good, steady job, they were expected to work until 65 years of age and retire without any of the benefits we know today, such as superannuation, long service or sick leave entitlements. In cities, a large percentage of people worked in factories. Most factory owners treated their workers no better than slaves. In 1901 usual working hours were from 8am to 6pm. Work sometimes continued until 10pm with no extra pay. If they refused to work they were sacked. Shop assistants’ usual hours were from 9am to 9pm and from 9am to 11pm on Saturdays. During working hours they were not permitted to sit down, which often led to exhaustion. Few drapers lived past the age of 40. Many women were domestic servant who worked as maids, servants and cooks for rich families. Some ‘live in’ and were well treated – a few even married their boss. Some bosses however took advantage of female servants. Evening and days off were granted as a favour rather than as a condition of employment. Some servants were seduced and got pregnant. They were often thrown out and sacked. Children were expected to work from a young age. It was common for children as