A historic settlement has been reached in the Stolen Wages class action, led by Mervyn Street on behalf of thousands of Aboriginal Australians. These individuals were employed in Western Australia between 1936 and 1972, receiving little to no wages for their work. This settlement is a major step toward justice, providing long-awaited recognition and compensation for affected workers and their families.
Settlement Overview
The State of Western Australia has agreed to pay up to $180.4 million in compensation to eligible Aboriginal workers or their surviving spouses and children. The final payout will depend on how many people register for compensation by the deadline of 30 September 2024.
The settlement also includes an additional $15.4 million to cover some of the legal costs. On 28 November 2023, the Western Australian Government issued a formal apology in Parliament, acknowledging the injustices suffered by these Aboriginal workers. Mervyn Street, the lead applicant, was present to accept this apology.
Court Approval and Registration Deadline
The proposed settlement is subject to approval by the Federal Court of Australia. A hearing will be held in Perth on 28 and 29 October 2024 to finalise the settlement terms. The Court will determine the specific compensation amounts, and Mr. Street will ask that those who worked the longest under the laws in force from 1936 to 1972 receive a larger share of the settlement.
Important: To receive compensation, eligible individuals must complete a registration form by 30 September 2024. If you registered before 14 November 2023, you will need to re-register using a new form to be considered for the payout.
What You Need to Do
If you or someone you know was impacted by the Stolen Wages policy in Western Australia between 1936 and 1972, it is crucial to register for the settlement before the deadline.
For help with your registration or to find out more about the settlement, contact Shine Lawyers on 131199. They are representing claimants in this class action and can guide you through the process.
Information Required for Registration
To assist with your registration for the settlement, you will need to provide the following information:
- Personal details: Full name, date of birth, and contact information.
- Employment history: Details of your work in Western Australia between 1936 and 1972, including places of employment, approximate dates, and any other relevant employment records.
- Family details (if applicable): If you are registering on behalf of a deceased Aboriginal worker, you will need to provide proof of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate (for surviving spouses) or birth certificates (for children).
- Proof of identity: Government-issued identification documents, such as a driver’s licence or passport, to confirm your identity or the identity of the deceased worker.
- Previous registration details (if applicable): If you registered before 14 November 2023, you must submit a new registration form to be eligible for compensation.
For more assistance or further details on the Stolen Wages class action, call Shine Lawyers on 131199. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this important settlement – register by 30 September 2024 to secure the compensation you deserve.
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