Murdoch University signs Enforceable Undertaking requiring over $4.9 million in back-payments
Murdoch University will repay over $4.9 million to 2,100-plus underpaid staff under an Enforceable Undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman. The repayment covers back-pay, interest, and superannuation.
$4.9 million in back-payments, including interest and superannuation, owed to more than 2,100 underpaid Murdoch University employees.
What happens to my business if I underpay workers and the Fair Work Ombudsman gets involved?
Affects any trade business employing workers. A reminder that underpaying staff, even unintentionally, can trigger costly legal agreements and large back-payment bills.
Key takeaways
- Murdoch University must repay over $4.9 million to more than 2,100 employees it underpaid.
- The repayment includes back-pay, interest, and superannuation entitlements.
- The university signed an Enforceable Undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman to resolve the matter.
- Any employer, including trade businesses, can face similar action for underpaying staff.
Related
Accounting and financial services company penalised for unlawful cashback scheme
A Sydney accounting firm and its owner were fined $177,000 by the Fair Work Ombudsman for running a cashback scheme that forced a migrant worker to repay her entire wage.
Why it matters: Affects all trade business owners who employ staff. Cashback or wage repayment schemes are illegal and can result in heavy court penalties.
Aged care investigations recover $5.3 million for underpaid workers
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered $5.3 million for nearly 3,600 underpaid aged care workers following investigations into aged care businesses.
Why it matters: While focused on aged care, this signals active Fair Work enforcement across industries. Tradies employing staff should review their payroll compliance.
Fines rise after dodgy job ads spruik below-minimum rates
Fines for job ads offering below-minimum wage rates have risen 18% in the past year. Repeat or serious offenders face potential court action from regulators.
Why it matters: Affects all trade employers including builders, plumbers and electricians who post job ads. Illegal wage rates in ads can now trigger fines or court action.