VCET Payroll Remediation
By Media|
Victorian Convention and Event Trust (VCET) has identified a historic payroll issue dating back to March 2019 that unfortunately has led to the underpayment and overpayment of some employees working at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
This occurred due to genuine systems and process errors including how aspects of the Enterprise Agreement were applied. The issue will be addressed through system updates, new sign‑on/off tools, and improved procedures and training.
VCET appointed leading national law firm, Corrs Chambers Westgarth, and specialist advisors, McGrathNicol, to investigate and identify any payment irregularities. The investigation was complex and took time but was needed to ensure our confidence in the process and outcome.
Between March 2019 and March 2025, there was $1.12m in underpayments affecting approximately 2,200 current and former VCET employees. Almost half were underpaid by less than $50, with the average underpayment across all those affected around $500.
The review also found potential overpayments of approximately $667,000, made to more than 1,500 current and former employees.
We acknowledge that instances of overpayment are a result of system issues and no fault of an employee. Given the significant cost and effort required to investigate the overpayments, and the impact to individuals, VCET will not seek to recover these amounts.
We are committed to repaying all amounts owed to our current and former employees, together with interest and superannuation payments as soon as practical.
A final review of payroll data from March 2025 to present is currently underway and will be completed in June 2026. Payments will then be made from July onwards.
VCET has reported the matter to the Fair Work Ombudsman and will work collaboratively with them to ensure the best outcomes for our current and former employees.
We are very sorry that this issue has occurred and apologise for this error.
For current and former employees
If you – or anyone you know – worked under the Enterprise Agreement at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 2019, please visit our Q&As for more information. If you have any additional queries, please contact remediation@mcec.com.au .