Unpaid wages, underpaid wages and wages theft are an increasing hazard for workers in Australia. The recent prosecution of major corporations such as 7 Eleven, Woolworths, Grill’d and others have drawn attention to this issue.
Without doubt the vast majority of Australian employers abide by the rules and want to ensure that their employees are being properly remunerated. Sadly, it is the conduct of a small minority of employers who under pay or avoid payment requirements that cause financial hardship for their employees.
In Australia there are numerous ‘Awards’ which set down the pay rates, penalties, overtime, and related salary and wages amounts and conditions for a broad range of industries. In addition to these, the National Employment Standards place obligations on employers about wages and conditions, pay rates and the like.
If you think you are not being paid the correct award wage, or that you are being underpaid – you may have a legal claim against your employer and you may be entitled to compensation.