Time and wages records are employment records documenting hours worked, pay received, and leave taken, kept for 7 years.
Legislation: Fair Work Act 2009 s535; Fair Work Regulations 2009 | Category: Record Keeping
What is Time and Wages Records?
Time and wages records are employment records that employers must create and keep under the Fair Work Regulations. These records document the hours worked by employees, pay received, leave taken, and superannuation contributions made. Records must be kept for 7 years, be in English, and be readily accessible for inspection.
The legal significance of record-keeping extends beyond compliance obligations. Where an employer fails to keep or produce time and wages records, the Fair Work Act creates a reverse onus — if an employee claims underpayment, the employer must disprove the claim rather than the employee proving it.
Key Compliance Points for Employers
- Required records include: employee details, employment terms, hours worked each day and when, overtime, breaks taken, pay rates and gross/net pay, deductions, leave balances and usage, and super contributions
- Records should be contemporaneous — created at or near the time work is performed
- The Fair Work Ombudsman can issue a notice requiring production of records
- Falsifying records carries serious penalties including potential imprisonment
- Digital records are acceptable provided they meet accessibility requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Time and Wages Records?
Time and wages records are employment records documenting hours worked, pay received, and leave taken, kept for 7 years.
Why is Time and Wages Records important for employers?
Understanding time and wages records helps employers comply with Australian employment law, avoid penalties, and maintain fair workplace practices.
