The True Cost of Wage Theft in Australia

Wage theft is a massive problem in Australia, affecting hundreds of thousands of workers and costing an estimated $1.35 billion annually.

What is Wage Theft?

Wage theft occurs when employers fail to pay workers their full legal entitlements, including:

• Minimum award rates
• Penalty rates
• Overtime
• Superannuation
• Leave entitlements

The Numbers

Recent studies show:

• 1 in 4 workers may be underpaid
• Average underpayment: $3,800 per worker
• Most common in retail, hospitality, healthcare

Why It Happens

Wage theft often occurs due to:

1. Complexity of award system
2. Employer ignorance or negligence
3. Deliberate exploitation
4. Poor record keeping

What You Can Do

If you suspect wage theft:

1. Keep detailed records
2. Request payslips
3. Use Justiico to validate your pay
4. Contact Fair Work Ombudsman
5. Seek legal advice if needed