Two major aged care operators will have to repay workers more than $12 million between them after discovering significant underpayment of wages.

Australian Unity has repaid $6.8 million under an Enforceable Undertaking, with around $500,000 remaining, to around 8,500 aged care workers in Victoria and NSW, while RSL LifeCare has back-paid NSW and ACT workers more than $5.1 million.

“This matter demonstrates why employers should prioritise workplace compliance and ensure their systems and processes meet all requirements of relevant Awards or agreements. Where breaches are not picked up quickly, they can lead to a substantial back-payment bill,” said Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker (pictured).

“Any employer who needs help meeting their lawful obligations to their employees should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance.”

Australian Unity’s Group Managing Director, Rohan Mead (pictured), has apologised to workers, saying the provider would never intentionally underpay staff.

“T
o minimise the risk of these issues reoccurring, we’ve made a number of enhancements to improve our systems and processes.

“We appreciate and value the work our people do to support our customers and the significant impact this has on our broader community. We would never want to jeopardise the positive, ongoing contribution that our employees make to the community,” he said.

RSL LifeCare has been contacted for comment.