Know Your Worth at Work
Getting paid fairly and having time off shouldn’t be a gamble for young workers.
When you know your rights and join your union, you can feel confident you’re getting what you deserve.
Getting Paid
You’re entitled to fair pay. Union members before you fought for strong laws that set a minimum wage for all workers! And most jobs have higher even pay rates set by industry awards. It’s also important to understand the difference between casual, part-time and full-time and other types of employment.
Fighting pay inequality. Women still earn less than men for the same work. Unions are tackling this through laws against pay secrecy and other important measures, and we won’t stop until the gender pay gap is closed. Discrimination is never okay.
Watch out for wage theft. When your boss deliberately underpays you, that’s wage theft – and it’s a crime. Always check your payslip carefully. Also be cautious about unpaid work trials – if you’re doing a full shift, that’s probably unlawful.
Leave
Everyone needs a break sometimes. Union members have won heaps different types of leave including annual leave and sick leave, as well as leave loading (extra pay when you take annual leave). Casual workers get higher pay rates instead of leave.
Other Basic Rights
You’re protected by law. The National Employment Standards set your basic rights including maximum hours, minimum pay, leave, and the right to request flexible work. If your employment is ending, you have rights around notice periods and final pay. If you’re a trainee, make sure you understand your rights.
Special rights for apprentices and trainees. If you’re an apprentice, you must be paid for time at TAFE and you get the same leave as other workers. If you’re a trainee, make sure youunderstand your rights.
Quick Tips
💰 STOLEN WAGES?
You have six years to recover unpaid wages from current or former employers. Contact your union for help.
🛡️ DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LEAVE
Both permanent and casual workers get up to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave per year. Your employer must keep this private.
👋 LEAVING YOUR JOB?
Your final pay should include outstanding wages, unused annual leave, leave loading, and any long service leave. There are minimum notice periods whether you quit or get dismissed, though your employer might pay you in one lump sum instead.
Need Further Info?
The Australian Unions Support Centre can help you join your union. We can also provide general info about your rights at work. All Support Centre enquiries are 100% confidential.
Ready To Join Your Union?
The best way to protect your rights at work is by joining your union.