Where there's a will there's a way, even when it comes to wage theft. Despite JobKeeper payments not scheduled to reach employee pockets until mid-May, there are already whispers that unscrupulous employers are seeking to exploit the scheme.
In a system that was already rife with underpayment scandals, maybe we shouldn't be so surprised but optimism is not something that should be lost during these times.
In any event, people are hitting social media to reveal instances of employers forcing employees to pay back portions of the JobKeeper payment or deducting "administrative fees" (no such fees apply under the scheme).
One employee raised a concern with their MP after they were offered their job back, but only on the condition that they "reimburse" $600 of the $1,500 fortnightly JobKeeper payment. That MP is now calling for a dedicated JobKeeper dob-in hotline. ScoMo has also called out this "disgraceful" behaviour but said reports should be made to the ATO and police. While there is certainly confusion around aspects of the JobKeeper scheme, one thing is clear, the $1,500 must be passed onto the employees.
Considering the intent of JobKeeper is to help both employers and employees survive very difficult times together, these unlawful practices won't be treated lightly. With maximum penalties reaching $630,000 for employers and $126,000 for individuals per breach, an employer would be risking a lot just to pocket a few hundred dollars a week.
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