Cash-in-Hand Employment #
Help newcomers understand the risks associated with cash-in-hand employment so they can make informed decisions about work in Australia.
At a glance #
- Cash-in-hand work can leave employees without important workplace protections.
- Understanding employment rights helps newcomers make informed choices.
- CSGs provide information and support but do not make employment decisions for newcomers.
Understanding the risks #
Cash-in-hand employment is sometimes offered to newly arrived migrants and refugees but can leave workers vulnerable to exploitation.
People who are paid cash may not receive workplace protections such as superannuation, paid leave or payslips. Cash-in-hand arrangements may also involve failing to meet tax obligations. If a workplace dispute arises, it can be difficult to demonstrate that employment existed or verify the hours worked.
Helpful resource #
The JobWatch Employment Rights Legal Centre has developed a factsheet explaining cash-in-hand employment and practical steps employees can take to protect themselves.
Factsheet about Cash-in-Hand Employment:
https://jobwatch.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022_CashinHandEmployment_FINAL.pdf</a
Supporting informed choices #
Refugee newcomers are entitled to make their own decisions about the employment they undertake.
CSGs are not responsible for those decisions but are encouraged to provide reliable information about workplace rights and potential risks so newcomers have every opportunity to make informed choices.
“Access to accurate information empowers newcomers to make informed employment decisions that support their long-term wellbeing.”
