Despite being in force for less than a month, the JobKeeper scheme has already attracted opportunist employers who are asking their employees for a ‘cut’ of their fortnightly payment.
According to the ABC News, reports have already been made by nervous employees that their bosses are trying to “skin the payment” from them.
Employees are being reminded the JobKeeper payment is an entitlement for their immediate benefit – not their employer, nor the business.
Importantly, employers do not have any claim over the payment and are required by the Fair Work Act to pass on the amount in full to staff. The penalties for misuse or theft can include fines and jail time.
Calls are being made for the government to create a hotline to both deter employers from being deceitful, and provide support to anxious, uncertain staff.
Read more from the ABC News here: Employers rorting JobKeeper payment will feel full force of the ATO, warns government
To understand the JobKeeper scheme and your rights as an employee read our previous blog: JobKeeper: How you are doing your employer a favour by applying for the payment
For further JobKeeper information and advice see the Fair Work Ombudsman here: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/
This article is legal information and should not be seen as legal advice. Please consult with a lawyer before you rely on this information.