Dear Member,

Whiddon Aged Care has agreed to rectify a significant underpayment of workers – including former staff – after HSU members discovered the company was paying the incorrect rate and took action.

Aged care workers at Whiddon had expected their hourly pay rise on July 1, following the interim decision in the HSU’s historic Aged Care Work Value Case. Instead, many members discovered they had been incorrectly classified and were being underpaid.

HSU members demanded an explanation in August, calling on Whiddon to amend the error.

Last week, the aged care provider wrote to the HSU agreeing to pay the correct rate, with back pay. The company has also revealed that some classifications had incorrectly classified as far back as 2021!

Under pressure from HSU members, Whiddon has now agreed to pay back all unpaid wages, including tracking down and paying any former employees. It’s understood, all payments would be made on Friday, 1 December.

What’s next?

HSU members at Whiddon classified as AIN Grades 1-3 should receive written correspondence explaining the underpayment and detailing back pay. If you have any questions, HSU members should contact the union so that we can assist.

These sorts of wins are only possible when workers come together like they did at Whiddon and grow the union in their workplace.

Encourage your workmates to join the HSU. Together you have strength in your workplace. New members can join online at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.