NAB admits nearly 66,000 staff were underpaid over 14 years

National Australia Bank has admitted that almost 66,000 current and former employees were underpaid over 14 years, with problems continuing into 2024 and this year. The case highlights how weaknesses in payroll and oversight can leave workers short of pay for years, even at a large, well-resourced employer.

The underpayments date back to 2012 and affected casual, part-time and full-time staff in personal and business banking roles across Australia. NAB says it has repaid at least $155 million of the $169 million owed, including interest and superannuation; the average back-payment was $1,934, while one worker was owed more than $87,000. Under an enforceable undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman, the bank will complete repayments and pay a $2 million contrition payment.