08 April 2016

Where to from here?

Employment Law
Queensland

Asked

Hi

Does the Magistrates Court have jurisdiction to hear underpayment of wages/entitlement claims? Or is the Federal Circuit Court more appropriate? I understand that QCAT does not have jurisdiction. Is this correct?

Kind regards

Answered

The Magistrates Court has jurisdiction under the Fair Work Act 2009 to hear small claims up to $20,000. The employee would file a Form 2A - Employment Claim and the employer would file a Form 6A - Notice of Intention to Defend an Employment Claim.

The Federal Circuit Court also has jurisdiction – it is a matter of preference.

You are correct that QCAT does not have jurisdiction.

Below is a link to the Fair Work Ombudsman Small Claims Guide, which will assist you.

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/how-we-help-you/help-resolving-workplace-issues/taking-legal-action-in-the-small-claims-court#Small-claims-guide

Regards

Mentor