Call for greater Au Pair regulation after Di Natale revelation

Recent news of Greens Party leader Richard Di Natale paying three Au Pairs below minimum wage for their work has raised questions about the industry.

The issue has often been a fraught one, with employers pointing out the free room and meals afforded to Au Pairs.

So what is a fair wage? And what does the law say about the situation

 

Edit: Senator Di Natale denied claims he paid Au Pairs below minimum wage, saying the wages of $150 were based on advice that it would be appropriate to deduct $300 a week for board and only required them to work 25 hours per week. The original text of this article has been updated to include this claim.

Producers:

• Bridie Rawlins

Speakers:

• Marlene Zenk - Au Pair
• Wendi Aylward - Managing Director American Institute for Foreign Study (Australia)