Metro Trains Admits to Unpaid Superannuation on Overtime, Vows Backpay
Sydney, Australia – For four years, Metro Trains required maintenance workers at several depots to work mandatory overtime shifts but failed to pay superannuation on those additional hours.
The company capped superannuation contributions at 76 hours per fortnight, despite workers regularly averaging 84 hours. Internal documents and recordings obtained by the union indicate Metro has now agreed to backpay the superannuation, estimated at between $10,000 and $24,000 per worker.
“The company capped superannuation contributions at 76 hours per fortnight, despite workers averaging 84 hours.”
The dispute affects an estimated 200 to 300 employees across multiple depots. The issue has already led to Fair Work Commission hearings, with allegations emerging that the unions initially failed to adequately support the workers in seeking the unpaid entitlements.
Key facts at a glance:
- Duration of underpayment: Four years
- Hours worked: Average 84 per fortnight (8 hours over the 76-hour super cap)
- Affected workers: 200–300 employees
- Estimated backpay per worker: $10,000 to $24,000
Internal records show that Metro Trains has now acknowledged the oversight and committed to making the backpayments. The Fair Work Commission is expected to continue monitoring the resolution of the matter.