NT Stolen Wages Settlement 2025 :- The Northern Territory Stolen Wages Settlement represents one of Australia’s most significant class actions acknowledging historical injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers. Between 1933 and 1971, many Aboriginal individuals in the Northern Territory worked on cattle stations, missions, and other workplaces under government policies that withheld or underpaid wages.
In response to a class action initiated in 2021, the Commonwealth Government has agreed to a $180 million settlement—approved by the Federal Court of Australia—to compensate eligible individuals or their families.
This article explains the background of the case, eligibility criteria, payment process, and how to apply for compensation.
Background of the Class Action
In 2021, Minnie McDonald, on behalf of Aboriginal workers, filed a class action against the Commonwealth. The claim was based on decades of unpaid or underpaid wages for Aboriginal people who worked in the Northern Territory from 1 June 1933 to 12 November 1971.
These individuals were either paid very low wages or no wages at all, despite providing essential labor in the region. The class action argued that the government failed to protect workers’ rights and instead allowed systemic wage theft.
In September 2024, the Commonwealth agreed to settle the case without admitting liability, and the Federal Court formally approved the settlement.
NT Stolen Wages Settlement 2025 Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Case Name | Northern Territory Stolen Wages Settlement |
| Handled By | Federal Court of Australia |
| Settlement Amount | $180 million (plus $22 million in legal and administrative costs) |
| Claim Filed By | Minnie McDonald (2021) |
| Legal Representation | Shine Lawyers |
| Litigation Funder Share | 1/6 of the total settlement amount |
| Minimum Individual Payment | $10,000 per eligible living claimant |
| Website for Info/Registration | shine.com.au |
Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
The settlement is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person
- Born on or before 12 November 1961
- Worked in the Northern Territory between 1 June 1933 and 12 November 1971
- Received little or no wages for their labor
- Spouses or children of deceased eligible individuals may also qualify to receive the compensation on behalf of their family member
Compensation Breakdown
The total settlement amount is $180 million, which will be distributed as follows:
- A minimum of $10,000 will be paid to each eligible living claimant
- Final payment amounts will be based on the duration and type of work during the eligible period
- If the eligible worker is deceased, the compensation will go to their spouse or children
- $22 million is allocated for legal and administrative costs
- The litigation funder will receive approximately 1/6 of the total fund
How to Apply for the NT Stolen Wages Settlement 2025
Eligible individuals or family members can apply using one of the following methods:
1. Online Registration
Visit the Shine Lawyers website and complete the online registration form:
https://www.shine.com.au
2. By Phone
Call Shine Lawyers toll-free: 1800 860 378
3. By Email (PDF Form)
Download the application form, complete it, and email it to:
[email protected]
Make sure to provide supporting documentation where possible, such as birth records or proof of employment during the eligible timeframe.
Payment Schedule
As of now, the exact payment dates have not been confirmed. However, the Federal Court has approved the distribution, and Justice Mortimer emphasized that compensation should be paid as soon as practicable.
Priority will be given to living Aboriginal workers, with subsequent payments made to qualifying family members of deceased individuals.
Applicants will be notified directly by Shine Lawyers regarding payment timelines once the processing of claims is complete.
FAQs About NT Stolen Wages Settlement 2025
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people who worked in the Northern Territory between 1933 and 1971 and were underpaid or unpaid are eligible. Family members of deceased workers may also qualify.
The settlement totals $180 million, with additional costs for legal and administrative services.
Each eligible living worker is expected to receive at least $10,000. The exact amount depends on work history and other factors.
Yes, but only if you meet the eligibility requirements. Visit shine.com.au or call 1800 860 378 to register or inquire.
The class action was initiated by Minnie McDonald on behalf of Aboriginal workers in 2021.
The Northern Territory Stolen Wages Settlement is a major step toward acknowledging and compensating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers who were systematically underpaid for decades. While no amount can erase the injustice, this settlement provides meaningful financial redress to thousands of affected individuals and families.
| Homepage | sleepauthorities.com |
If you or someone you know may be eligible, reach out to Shine Lawyers as soon as possible to register and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.