Think You’re Being Ripped Off at Work?

You’re not alone. Two out of every three workers in Australia aren’t getting their full pay—and it’s time to fix that.

$1.35 Billion Stolen Every Year

That’s how much Aussie workers lose to wage theft annually. If your pay seems sus, it probably is.

What Even Is Wage Theft?

Wage theft is when your employer deliberately underpays you. Sometimes it’s an honest mistake, but when it’s done on purpose? That’s theft, plain and simple.

You might be entitled to more than just your hourly rate—there are penalty rates for weekends and late nights, super contributions, overtime pay, and loads more.

New Laws = Real Consequences for Dodgy Bosses

Big Win: Wage Theft Is Now a Crime

Thanks to union members fighting for change, wage theft became a federal crime on January 1, 2025. This means employers who deliberately steal wages can actually face criminal charges.

What Happens to Employers Who Steal Wages?

• For Companies: Fined up to $8.25 million OR three times what they stole (whichever is more)

• For Individual Bosses/Managers: Fined up to $1.65 million OR three times what they stole, plus up to 10 years in prison

These aren’t just empty threats.  Your union can investigate suspected wage theft and take action to make your employer pay you back what you are owed.

What Can You Actually Do About It?

Step 1: Do Your Homework

Figure out what you should be getting paid. Check your Award or Enterprise Agreement, look at your payslips, and compare what you’re supposed to get vs. what you’re actually getting. Include super, penalty rates, and other entitlements.

Step 2: Talk to Your Coworkers

Here’s the thing: new union-won laws mean employers can’t stop you from talking about pay anymore. So chat with your workmates. If you’re being underpaid, chances are they are too.

Step 3: Speak Up & Get Support

Bring it up with your boss first, but don’t stop there. Get in touch with your union delegate or your union directly. Union members have special protections—union reps can now get fast-track access to your workplace if they suspect you’re being underpaid, without giving your employer the usual 24 hours’ notice.

Why Join a Union?

All these new protections and laws? Union members won them.

The criminal penalties for wage theft, the right to talk about your pay with coworkers, the ability for union reps to investigate underpayment quickly—none of this happened by accident. Workers came together through their unions and fought for these changes.

When you join a union, you get:

• Someone in Your Corner: Professional support when dealing with wage issues, unfair treatment, or workplace problems

• Legal Protection: Access to workplace delegates and union reps who know your rights and can take action

• Real Power: When workers stand together, employers have to listen. That’s how we won these new wage theft laws, and there’s more to fight for

Ready to Stand Up for Your Rights?

Don’t let dodgy employers get away with stealing your wages. Become a union member and join thousands of young workers who are fighting for fair pay and decent conditions.

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