What to do if your employer underpays you in Australia step by step is one of those situations that many students face but don’t know how to handle. Underpayment is common, especially for international students. I’ve been underpaid, and I’ve watched friends deal with it. Some got their money back. Others didn’t. The difference was knowing what to do and taking action.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve dealt with underpayment, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Some approaches worked well. Others didn’t. The difference was understanding the process and being persistent.
So here’s everything I know about what to do if your employer underpays you in Australia, based on what actually works.
Step 1: Gather Evidence
This is the first step, and here’s what you need.
Keep your payslips: these show what you were paid and when.
Record your hours: keep a record of hours worked, even if informal. This helps prove what you worked.
Keep communications: save emails or messages about your pay or hours.
But here’s what I’ve learned: evidence is crucial. Don’t rely on memory. Keep records, and you’ll have proof if needed.
Step 2: Calculate What You Should Be Paid
This is important, because knowing what you should be paid helps you understand the issue.
Check your award rate: use the Fair Work website to find your award and minimum rate.
Calculate based on hours: multiply your hours by your award rate to see what you should be paid.
Include penalty rates: if you worked weekends, evenings, or public holidays, include penalty rates.
But here’s what I’ve learned: calculating what you should be paid helps you understand the issue. Know your award rate, calculate based on hours, and include penalty rates. This shows how much you’re owed.
I’ve written about minimum wage for casual and part time workers if you want more detail.
Step 3: Speak to Your Employer
This is usually the first action, and here’s how to do it.
Be professional: approach your employer professionally and respectfully.
Explain the issue: show your calculations and explain why you believe you’re underpaid.
Give them a chance to fix it: many employers fix mistakes when pointed out. Give them a reasonable time to respond.
But here’s what I’ve learned: many employers fix mistakes when pointed out. Don’t assume they’re trying to cheat you. Sometimes it’s a mistake. Approach professionally, and give them a chance to fix it.
Step 4: Contact Fair Work
This is if your employer doesn’t fix it, and here’s how to do it.
Contact Fair Work: Fair Work can help you recover underpaid wages and ensure you’re paid correctly.
Provide evidence: give Fair Work your payslips, records of hours, and calculations.
Be patient: the process can take time. Be patient, but be persistent.
But here’s what I’ve learned: Fair Work can help, but the process takes time. Don’t expect immediate results. Be patient, but be persistent. You have rights, and you should be paid correctly.
I’ve written about Fair Work basics for international student workers if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m underpaid?
Check your payslip against your award rate. Calculate what you should be paid based on hours and rates. If it’s less, you’re probably underpaid.
What if my employer fires me for complaining?
That’s illegal. Employers can’t fire you for asserting your rights. If this happens, contact Fair Work immediately.
How long does the process take?
It varies. Sometimes employers fix it quickly. Sometimes Fair Work processes take weeks or months. Be patient, but be persistent.
Do I need a lawyer?
Usually no. Fair Work can help without a lawyer. But if it’s complex, you might want legal advice.
What if I’m scared to speak up?
That’s understandable, but you have rights. Start by speaking to your employer professionally. If you’re scared, contact Fair Work. They can help anonymously.
Can I get my money back?
Usually yes. Fair Work can help you recover underpaid wages. But it depends on the situation and how long it’s been.
Final Thoughts
What to do if your employer underpays you in Australia involves gathering evidence, calculating what you should be paid, speaking to your employer, and contacting Fair Work if needed. Don’t accept underpayment. Know your rights, gather evidence, and take action. You should be paid correctly.
Don’t be afraid to speak up. Underpayment is serious, but you have rights. Gather evidence, speak to your employer, and contact Fair Work if needed. You should be paid correctly.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Don’t accept underpayment. Know your rights, gather evidence, and take action. You should be paid correctly. Don’t be afraid to speak up.
If you’re still dealing with underpayment, gather evidence, calculate what you should be paid, and speak to your employer. If they don’t fix it, contact Fair Work. You have rights, and you should be paid correctly.
