It's illegal for employers to undercut the award. Defending and improving the award system is a key issue for property services workers. Underpayment of wages Underpayment of wages is a major problem for property service workers. Each year the LHMU recovers hundred of thousands dollars for members who have been underpaid by their employer. Some examples of underpayment include not being paid the right hourly rate, not getting penalty rates, no redundancy pay, not receiving overtime pay and not getting paid the right allowances.
Some employers try to get workers to enter into sham 'sub-contract' agreements.
The aim is to treat individual workers as contractors running their own business. This is just an attempt by employers to undercut award pay and conditions, not provide workers compensation cover and not pay superannuation. The LHMU has challenged sub-contracting scams in several states and won. Your employer is required by law provide a safe and healthy work environment. The LHMU is represented on many occupational health and safety committees to ensure that workplaces become safer and healthier.