Sunnyfield pays back $5.36M to 1700 disability workers over six-year underpay
Disability provider Sunnyfield underpaid more than 1,700 workers between 2018 and 2024.
A payroll audit found that Sunnyfield did not apply pay-raise rules the same way each time. The inconsistent application of pay-raise rules left workers earning less than they should have under their pay deal.
The company has paid back $5.36 million so far, but still owes more than $78,000 to 134 workers. One worker was owed $23,378 in total.
The Fair Work Ombudsman required Sunnyfield to make a binding promise after the company reported the problem. The company must do two independent audits, provide workplace training, and improve board oversight.
The ombudsman said the disability support sector is a priority area because many workers have made wage complaints.
- 5.36 million dollars
- Total paid back
- 1,700
- Workers underpaid
- 78,000 dollars to 134 workers
- Still outstanding
Why it mattersWorkers who relied on their pay to live have now received what they were owed. But the case shows how pay systems can hide underpayment for many years without being caught.
AustraliaAustralian disability support workers at Sunnyfield and across the sector now have a case showing that employers must regularly audit pay practices to ensure compliance with awards.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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