Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2025-11-25-queensland-university-of-technology-eu-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $1,900,000
- Employees affected
- 433
What happened
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has paid over $1.9 million to 433 staff members who were underpaid. The underpayments occurred at campuses in Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, across five faculties. Affected employees included administration officers, research assistants, and IT event staff, with most being full-time or part-time workers. The university identified the underpayments in 2019 and self-reported to the Fair Work Ombudsman in 2021. The underpayments related to overtime, meal allowances, casual loading, and minimum engagement payments, breaching enterprise agreements.
What was decided
QUT has entered into an Enforceable Undertaking (EU) with the Fair Work Ombudsman. The university has already paid $1.9 million in back-pay, interest, and superannuation. They must also pay a $250,000 contrition payment and undertake a Comprehensive External Review (CER) to identify and rectify further underpayments. The Fair Work Ombudsman considers the EU appropriate due to QUT’s cooperation and commitment to rectifying the issues. The EU aims to drive cultural change and improve workplace compliance.
What it means for employers
Employers, particularly universities, must implement robust governance processes and payroll systems to ensure compliance with workplace laws and enterprise agreements. Self-reporting non-compliance and demonstrating a commitment to remediation can lead to a more favourable outcome, such as an Enforceable Undertaking. Regular checks and balances are essential to avoid long-running underpayment issues.
What it means for employees
Employees should be aware of their entitlements under enterprise agreements and awards. If you suspect you have been underpaid, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for assistance. The Fair Work Ombudsman is prioritising workplace compliance in universities, which may lead to further investigations and remediation.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2025-media-releases/november-2025/20251125-queensland-university-of-technology-eu-media-releaseWant more cases like this?
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This summary was drafted by AI from the published decision and reviewed before publishing. It is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, speak to the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified lawyer. About these summaries & corrections →