NEWS & VIEWS
THE BUZZ
Students bear the brunt of widespread wage theft
More than 75% of international students studying in Australia are experiencing serious wage theft, according to a recent report. Of the 5000 international students surveyed, 77% were paid below the minimum casual hourly wage. More than a quarter (26%) earned half the minimum casual hourly wage or less. This hasn’t changed since a 2016 survey was conducted.
It’s a damaging assessment of our nation’s employers and the financial future of these students and temporary migrant workers, many of whom may choose to permanently call Australia home.
Alarmingly, of the 3850 students experiencing wage theft, 62% suffered in silence. They didn’t speak out for fear of losing their job or visa.
International students aren’t the only ones susceptible to wage theft. In the past year we’ve seen several reputable businesses admit to underpaying staff. Industry Super Australia has reported in the past that one-third of eligible workers (2.4 million) are underpaid
