Following concerns raised within the higher education sector about underpayments, Murdoch University proactively undertook a comprehensive review of its payroll compliance, which led to the University making voluntary disclosures to the FWO.  

Since commencing that review and identifying remediation requirements, Murdoch University has implemented several measures to achieve ongoing compliance. 

This has included updates to procedures, and significant investment in new technology to centralise and improve systems to make these more robust. 

The EU reflects a number of the activities already undertaken, as well as additional measures that will ensure ongoing compliance, including strengthening governance, undertaking two independent audits (one in 2027 and one in 2028) and providing training to all employees who are required to submit or approve timesheets. 

An independent audit conducted by Ernst and Young at the end of 2025 found no systemic issues requiring remediation beyond those identified and reported. 

Since commencing the remediation program in 2022, Murdoch University has investigated and remediated a wide range of payroll entitlements, including casual classifications, minimum engagement hours, repeat lectures / tutorials, public holiday penalties, Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) claims, use of gift cards, and pay and entitlements for Murdoch Active employees. Investigations into casual long service leave and a shift work review are ongoing. 

Where Murdoch University is unable to contact former employees, the University will pay the wage underpayment (amount owed to those employees, excluding superannuation and interest) into the FWO’s Unclaimed Monies Fund. 

As part of the EU, Murdoch University will also pay a contrition payment of $125,000 to address past payroll discrepancies and support ongoing compliance. 

Throughout this payroll remediation program, Murdoch University has kept current and former employees informed and has been in regular contact with the Office of Fair Work Ombudsman and key stakeholders, namely the National Tertiary Union (NTEU) and the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA). 

Murdoch University sincerely apologises for the payroll errors that have occurred and any inconvenience caused. The University is committed to ensuring all current and former employees are paid correctly and receive their complete entitlements. 

Murdoch University has set up a complaints and review process for handling any disputes about remedies made and the process may be engaged by contacting our People and Culture Office. Former employees who have questions about our payroll remediation process should contact our People and Culture Office by: