Community and disability workers say they are undervalued and overworked, filing a historic claim for a huge wage boost.
Australian Services Union workers gathered at the Fair Work Commission in Melbourne on Wednesday, lodging a claim seeking up to a 35 per cent pay rise for 300,000 workers across the nation.
Community lawyer Agata Nabaglo described the claim as an absolute necessity.
She is the main provider for her family and told reporters she was considering leaving the job she loves because of her low wage.
"I won't be able to provide for my family and likely I will need to leave the sector if things don't change," she said.
"Community workers deserve to have our skills and contributions recognised."
