how to get back my unpaid wage?

Question

i used to work as a contractor for a company. That means I invoice them for my hours worked and they pay me based on that. I haven't got paid for my last week of work with them. I sent them email few times and they didn't even answer me. That was about 3 months ago. I quit that job and got another work. So how do I get back that money? Have I waited too long? I think it doesn't matter because I am entitled to that money no matter how long I wait for it.

I don't know if I should sue them but I was thinking it'd be too much of a hassle for a week's pay. Is there anyone who can help me with this? Can I report this to employment watchdog or something like that so that I can get some help? I am in Sydney, Australia.

I hope to get some helpful replies.

if I am to take legal action against them, I'll have to show the proof of work on that following week. How do I prove that? What if they deny I didn't work for them that week? All I do is issue them an invoice. I don't sign timesheets when I go to work.

Answer 1

Firstly you're right, you will need to prove you worked that week. Do you have any receipts from the location? Petrol station bills or materials you purchased and a record of where you used these materials (make one!)? Did you have to bill anyone else for the work done or do you have an assistant or other unbias witness who could vouch for you? Basically think of anything you can to prove you were there and did the work.

Next write a nother letter stating that should you not get a response and payment within 28 days you will take them to the small claims court to settle the issue. Hopefully they will take the threat and pay up. If not go to the court and find out the procedure for starting a claim. Goo luck!

Answer 2

Send them a registered letter requesting your money and if they do not respond, then take them to small claims court with prove of work....