General information only — not legal advice. First speak with your employer, then if unsuccessful contact Fair Work or an employment lawyer.
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Working at a Restaurant With No Payslip — What Are My Rights?

Last updated: March 2026 · MA000119

Every employee is entitled to a payslip within one working day of each pay period. Working without payslips is a significant red flag — it makes it nearly impossible to verify you're being paid correctly under the Restaurant Industry Award.

If you're not receiving payslips — something is wrong.

The rule

Under the Fair Work Act 2009:

  • Employers must provide a payslip within one working day of each pay day
  • Payslips must be in electronic or paper form
  • This applies to all employees — permanent, part-time, and casual
  • Failure to provide payslips is a contravention of the Act

What your payslip must show

  • Employer's name and ABN
  • Employee's name
  • Award name and classification level
  • Pay period and date of payment
  • Gross and net amounts
  • Ordinary hours worked and hourly rate
  • Separate rates for each shift type (Saturday, Sunday, PH, overtime)
  • Superannuation contributions
  • Any allowances paid

Without this information, you cannot verify whether you're being paid correctly.

What to do

  • Step 1: Request payslips from your employer in writing (email or text message)
  • Step 2: Keep a record of your request and the date
  • Step 3: If payslips are not provided, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94
  • Step 4: Keep your own record of hours worked, shifts, and amounts received

Why it matters

No payslip means no way to check your penalty rates, overtime, allowances, or superannuation. In the restaurant industry, where penalty rates and allowances make up a significant portion of total pay, working without payslips dramatically increases the risk of underpayment going undetected.

Frequently asked questions

Is it legal for my employer to not give me payslips?

No. Under the Fair Work Act, every employer must provide a payslip within one working day of each pay day. Failing to provide payslips is a contravention that can result in penalties for the employer.

I'm paid in cash and don't get a payslip — am I still entitled to one?

Yes. The payment method (cash, bank transfer, cheque) does not change the payslip obligation. You are entitled to a payslip regardless of how you are paid.

What if my employer refuses to give me a payslip?

Contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 or visit fairwork.gov.au. Failure to provide payslips is a contravention of the Fair Work Act and can be investigated and penalised.

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General information only. Verify at fairwork.gov.au.