Understanding the new wage theft laws

Are you paying your employees correctly? Now, the consequences of getting it wrong are a whole lot more severe.

These changes are being made through the Government’s Closing Loopholes legislation. Covering the Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023 and the Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes No.2) Bill 2023, these regulatory reforms present significant changes to the country’s workplace laws and with that, new wage governance standards for employers.

With the criminalisation of wage theft now law, serious penalties and convictions are on the cards for employers and individuals that deliberately underpay their staff. Employers can face criminal charges including prison time and severe fines.

Luckily help is at hand and we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about this legislation, helping you understand this critical compliance change.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is current as at 1 Febraury 2025, and has been prepared by Employment Hero Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (Employment Hero). The views expressed in this webinar are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. The Information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. Employment Hero does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising either directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this article. You should undertake your own research and to seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this article.