JobWatch Executive Director Zana Bytheway appeared on A Current Affair on Monday 16 March 2026 commenting on the need for a written contract to better protect workers’ rights. This is particularly important for young workers who are already vulnerable by virtue of the power imbalance which often exists between employers and employees.
March 26, 2026
The segment featured a 20-year-old casual worker with a disability who was allegedly paid cash in hand and allegedly did not receive a written contract or payslips.
Speaking on the program, Ms Bytheway said: “Power imbalances already exist between employers and employees, and here this imbalance is amplified by the fact the worker is young and has a disability.”
When a young worker is also employed casually and paid cash in hand, these vulnerabilities compound. Together, they can make it more difficult for a young worker to enforce their rights.
Cash-in-hand payment arrangements can be a red flag for broader non-compliance with workplace laws. Where a worker is paid cash, there are often other problems such as underpayments, missing payslips and no superannuation contributions.
A verbal employment agreement is legally binding. However, a written contract provides greater clarity about the terms of employment and makes it easier for a worker to understand and enforce their rights.
Employers are required by law to pay employees at least the minimum wage, provide payslips, and make superannuation contributions on behalf of eligible workers. Failure to meet these obligations can result in penalties.
JobWatch provides free and confidential telephone information and referral for workers in Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania. If you are a young worker experiencing problems at work, including bullying, underpayment, discrimination or concerns about your employment arrangement, contact the JobWatch Telephone Information Service:
Phone: (03) 9662 1933 or 1800 331 617 (regional callers)
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