We can argue over $5 or $10 an hour but I think from the figures...

We can argue over $5 or $10 an hour but I think from the figures you're quoting(and they're not probably far off) you'd agree that the numbers old mate tried to pass off as the average are laughable?

Some of the wages paid here in Melbourne on the major union construction sites are astronomical. Although some say it's not happening, there have been reports of labourers earning up to $150k pa with overtime and stuff. Ain't no one working for 30/hour - vast majority of 3rd and 4th year apprentices would be getting that sort of coin.