16/07/2026
RSPCA QLD has back-paid approximately $4.3 million, including interest and superannuation, to 1,008 staff under an Enforceable Undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman.
The underpayments, spanning February 2017 to October 2024, affected veterinary, administrative, retail and café staff across 14 Queensland locations. They were caused by the charity incorrectly applying clauses in its Enterprise Agreements and two Awards — short-changing employees on minimum rates, allowances, overtime and penalty rates, leave entitlements and minimum engagement periods.
A change in payroll staff prompted a review, and RSPCA QLD self-reported to the Fair Work Ombudsman in September 2023. Individual back-payments ranged from under a dollar to $70,383, averaging $3,943.
Under the Enforceable Undertaking, RSPCA QLD must commission an independent audit at its own cost, train its payroll staff, establish a hotline for pay concerns, and have its board monitor workplace law compliance.
Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said the matter "serves as a warning of the significant long-running problems that can result from an employer failing to have appropriate checks and balances."
