A 26-Year-Old Full-Time Worker Took a Second Job – And Her Story Shows the Cost-of-Living Squeeze

A 26-year-old Sydney woman with a full-time government job says she needs a second job just to get by. Bree McGregor told news.com.au in May 2026 that her pay does not keep up with rising costs. Her TikTok video about it got nearly 400,000 views.

Key Facts

• Who: Bree McGregor, 26, from Sydney.
• Her job: A full-time government role.
• Rent: $450 a week.
• Weekly spending: Nearly $1,000, news.com.au said.
• Bigger picture: Nearly one million Australians work more than one job, the ABS says.

Her Story

McGregor said she earns a “decent wage”. But she said “the wages aren’t keeping up with the rising price of absolutely everything”. She pays $450 a week in rent, plus fuel, food and bills. She lives alone, so she cannot split costs.

Mixed Reactions Online

Some people said she should spend less on food or move into a share house. Others defended her. They said full-time workers should be able to live comfortably.

Secret Second Jobs

Some workers take a second full-time job without telling their boss. This is sometimes called “overemployment”. In 2025, SBS reported on an Australian software worker called “Ash” (not her real name) who once worked seven jobs. She has since cut back to two. Lawyers say this can break some job contracts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Bree McGregor take a second job?

She said her full-time pay was not enough to cover rising costs.

How many Australians have more than one job?

Nearly one million, according to ABS data reported by news.com.au.

Is it legal to have two full-time jobs?

It depends on your job contract, an employment lawyer told SBS.

Conclusion

Many Australians are feeling the cost-of-living squeeze. For some, one job is no longer enough.

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