Can I be paid in cash?

It is legal to be paid in cash by your employer as long as tax has been deducted from your earnings.

 

Your employer must send the tax payment to the Australian Taxation Office and include gross earnings and tax deducted in your group certificate.

 

There is a tax-free threshold, below which tax is not deducted.

 

If your employer wants to pay you 'cash in hand' without paying tax, then this is illegal. A complaint of 'tax evasion' can be lodged with the ATO.

 

Your employer cannot take money out of your pay without your written permission, or unless it is required by law, such as tax.

 

And remember it is a good idea to keep a work diary.