Question
of the week
Question of the week

Curious. Interesting. Informative.

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