December 12, 2016

UOW condemns workplace student exploitation

The University of Wollongong condemns the exploitation of its students - or any other worker - by employers in Wollongong and elsewhere.

UOW congratulates Fairfax Media on bringing this important issue to light through its investigation, published online and in print via the Illawarra Mercury and the Sydney Morning Herald on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 December 2016.

UOW calls on the Fair Work Ombudsman to enforce the Fair Work Act in relation to the employment of students, and other younger workers, in businesses in Wollongong and elsewhere.

The University assists students to obtain part-time employment and post-graduate employment via its Careers Service. This service provides information about workplace rights and obligations via its various workshops, seminars and in direct consultations with students. Before any positions are advertised to students on its ‘Job Board’ the employment opportunities are vetted to ensure proper award conditions are being offered.

The University also offers students access to its Student Legal Services Clinic, which provides free confidential legal advice to current students of the University of Wollongong (UOW) through external solicitors.