MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Unions NSW warns workers to check
penalty rate entitlements over holidays.
All workers need to be vigilant this holiday period to ensure they’re paid proper
penalty rates, according to Unions NSW Secretary, Mark Lennon.
With different penalties applying on the various public holidays the young and low
paid need to be particularly careful.
“Often employers aren’t fully aware of their obligations, especially with the recent
changes in legislation, so employees should call their union or double check their
award or agreement to confirm their entitlements,” Mr Lennon said.
“Some workers may be entitled to double or even triple time but due to an oversight
from their employer might miss out on money they’ve rightfully earned.”
The actual penalty rates and dates penalty rates are to be paid are determined by the
minimum award for a given industry or an enterprise agreement that exists within the
workplace.
Extra confusion has been caused this year as the NSW Government has gazetted
the 28th
December as the public holiday for Boxing Day which falls on a Saturday.
Unions in NSW are expecting an influx of enquiries as employees try and work
through the complexities to see what they’re entitled to.
“We’re asking all employees and employers to work co-operatively in the spirit of the
holidays to resolve what is a difficult situation.” Mr Lennon said.
The NSW Government has gazetted the following days over the holiday period as
public holidays:
Christmas Day
Friday, 25 December
Boxing Day
Monday, 28 December
New Years Day
Friday, 1 January
Unions NSW said that anyone who is having difficulty finding their award or
enterprise agreement should call their union or Unions Australia on 1300 486 466.
Comment:
Mark Lennon
Secretary Unions NSW
0427 231 800
Enquiries: Stephen Dampf Acting Communications Officer 0405 663 466
NEWS 
