A growing workplace trend reveals that young women are leaving jobs at double the rate of men due to customer abuse, stress, and systemic workplace issues. Research by Year13 highlights the alarming reality of young female workers facing verbal abuse, harassment, and condescension in customer-facing roles such as retail, cafes, and fast-food chains.
It’s more than we expected
One in eight teenage girls and young women reported quitting jobs due to customer mistreatment. Year13 co-founder Saxon Phipps emphasized the vulnerability of young workers, particularly during their first casual jobs, which often expose them to toxic environments. Financial independence or supporting family expenses motivates most young Australians to seek work, but the abuse and stress they endure are driving many to leave.
Maddy, 19, quit her cafe job after facing daily stress caused by disrespectful customers. Similarly, Brisbane retail worker Zarah noted that younger female workers were often targeted for manipulation and harassment, while older male colleagues were treated with greater respect. Workplace stress also plays a significant role in women quitting. Melbourne’s Vonnie, 21, left several jobs due to poor communication, long commutes, and toxic work environments. Ellie Kate, 22, exited a high-pressure recruitment role due to burnout and transitioned to barista work for a less stressful lifestyle.
This needs better treatment
The problem extends beyond customer abuse and stress. Recruitment expert Roxanne Calder attributes higher female resignation rates to confidence issues. Women are less likely than men to apply for roles if they feel underqualified and struggle to bounce back from negative feedback or mistakes. Despite these challenges, some women are taking bold steps to reclaim control over their careers. Kelsie Grace, 25, left her corporate marketing job to open a bar, citing burnout as her breaking point.
This trend underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to create safer, more supportive workplaces, particularly for young women entering the workforce.
