The Western Australian Government has agreed to a Class Action Settlement for Aboriginal people who were paid little to no wages between 1936 to 1972.
In 2020, Mr Mervyn Street, represented by Shine Lawyers, filed the class action on behalf of Aboriginal Australians who were affected by past wage control legislation.
The State will pay up to $180.4 million to eligible Aboriginal workers, or their surviving spouses and children. This amount is subject to approval by the Federal Court, who will also determine the amount payable to each eligible claimant.
Premier Roger Cook also issued an apology in Parliament on 28 November, 2023, on behalf of the State.
"In bringing a close to this part of WA's history, on behalf of the State of Western Australia, I apologise to the Aboriginal men, women and children who worked in WA between 1936 and 1972 - for decades in many cases - for no pay or not enough pay,” said Premier Roger Cook.
"While we acknowledge that many of those people have not lived to see this day, for their family members who remain, we are sorry for the hurt and loss that your loved ones suffered.
"Their strong minds and spirits pursued justice in the decades that followed, leading to this moment and the recognition they rightfully deserve.
"To you all, we say sorry."
Read more in the WA Government media statement.
Aboriginal people who lived and worked in WA between 11 December 1936 and 9 June 1972, or people representing a family member who has since passed away, are automatically part of the class action but will need to register to be considered for compensation.
For more information or to register for the class action, visit the Shine Lawyers website.
You can also pick up a registration form at the SWALSC office, or call us on 9358 7400 and we’ll send one to you by post.