Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2026-03-03-uniting-communities-incorporated-eu-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $2,600,000
- Employees affected
- 1500
What happened
Uniting Communities Incorporated, a South Australian community services provider, will return over $2.6 million in underpayments to approximately 1,500 current and former employees. The underpayments occurred between November 2015 and December 2025. They resulted from misapplication of Enterprise Agreements, failure to apply wage increases, and payroll system deficiencies. The organisation self-reported the non-compliance to the Fair Work Ombudsman in May 2023. The affected employees held roles such as support workers, counsellors, and project officers, working across full-time, part-time, and casual positions.
What was decided
Uniting Communities has entered into an Enforceable Undertaking (EU) with the Fair Work Ombudsman. The EU requires the company to back-pay $2.6 million in underpayments, including interest and superannuation. The company has already rectified most of the underpayments. Future compliance will be monitored through independent audits and improved payroll processes. The Fair Work Ombudsman considers the EU appropriate due to Uniting's cooperation and commitment to rectifying the issues.
What it means for employers
Employers must ensure robust checks and balances are in place to guarantee workplace compliance. Regularly review payroll systems and Enterprise Agreements to avoid long-running underpayment issues. Self-reporting non-compliance and demonstrating a commitment to remediation can lead to a more favourable outcome, such as an Enforceable Undertaking.
What it means for employees
Current and former employees of Uniting Communities will receive back-payments for underpayments, including interest and superannuation. Employees should raise concerns about their entitlements and utilise formal complaints mechanisms if they suspect underpayment. The EU provides a framework for future compliance and employee protection.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2026-media-releases/march-2026/20260303-uniting-communities-incorporated-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 →