Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union

 

Christmas Comes Early For Young AMWU Member

Jacob Catt, a 21-year-old AMWU member from Newcastle, has gotten an early Christmas present this year: winning back over $11 000 in unpaid wages. 

In his former job as a labourer at a shipping container factory in Mayfield, Jacob was underpaid thousands of dollars. As a casual manufacturing worker, he had no annual leave or sick leave, and was only being paid $16.35 an hour. 

“I thought that was a bit low, but I did not know what I was entitled to,” he said. 

It wasn’t until he checked with his dad, a member of the Rail Tram and Bus Union, that he realised the mistake. Jacob had joined the AMWU while working at the container factory, and the case was referred to the union’s legal team.

“Dad’s always been there to guide me, and along with the AMWU who’ve helped support me throughout this process,” said Jacob.

Jacob’s former employer was ordered by the local court to pay $11 000 in unpaid wages with interest, as well a penalty for contravening the Fair Work Act. 

image001.png
Jacob and his dad. 

“I’m glad that it will be over and done with and I can get what I’ve worked for,” he said.

The AMWU has welcomed the decision, and believes that it is an important reminder that workers, especially young workers, should check how much they deserve to be paid for the work that they do. 

“When you get your first job sometimes it’s difficult to know how much you’re supposed to be paid,” said Tim Ayres, Secretary of the AMWU NSW.

“Jacob’s story is an important reminder how important it is for young people to join their union and to know about their rights at work.”

 

 

 

Share on

Media releases

Mar 17, 2025

OVER 500 DEFENCE WORKERS STAGE MASSIVE WALK-OUT OVER WAGES AS BAE AUSTRALIA MANAGEMENT ADDRESSES WORKFORCE

Hundreds of critical defence shipbuilders at Osborne Naval Shipyard in Adelaide are walking off the...


Mar 12, 2025

AMWU URGES FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO SHIFT INDUSTRY POLICY AFTER US STEEL, ALUMINIUM TARIFFS

The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) is urging the federal government to shift gears on...


Mar 03, 2025

AMWU WELCOMES MAJOR INVESTMENT INTO WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN TRADES AND TECH

The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) welcomes the federal government’s announcement today that sees a...