PAYROLL RECTIFICATION PROJECT

Introduction

In 2021, our dedicated team at Townsville Catholic Education (TCE) initiated a detailed review of payroll records to ensure fairness, accuracy, and transparency in payments for all staff. During this process, discrepancies were identified and promptly reported to the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO), reflecting our commitment to accountability and best practice.

To uphold our values and maintain the highest standards, the scope of this review was expanded to examine payroll processes more comprehensively. Although this thorough review is ongoing, we remain committed to assessing every detail carefully to achieve fair and equitable outcomes for everyone involved.

What is a Payroll Rectification Project?

A payroll rectification project is a comprehensive review of payroll records aimed at identifying and correcting discrepancies in employee payments. Its purpose is to ensure that all staff, past and present, are compensated fairly and in accordance with relevant laws, awards, and agreements.

This process typically involves:

Reviewing historical payroll data to identify errors or inconsistencies.
Calculating entitlements and adjustments for affected employees.
Implementing system improvements to prevent future discrepancies.

These projects not only address past discrepancies but also help organisations build trust with employees by ensuring compliance with employment laws and upholding core values.

Our Commitment

At the Roman Catholic Trust for the Diocese of Townsville (RCTC), we are steadfast in our dedication to fairness, transparency, and integrity. Our employees—both past and present—are central to this commitment.

Our key focus areas include:

Addressing payroll discrepancies to ensure all employees receive their rightful entitlements.
Strengthening payroll systems to ensure ongoing accuracy and build lasting confidence.

We understand the importance of this process and remain committed to completing it with care, diligence, and fairness. Staff will be kept informed throughout, as we work toward a successful resolution that upholds our values and supports our people.

Progress Update

We are pleased to share continued progress in the Payroll Rectification Project (PRP) for the Diocese of Townsville.

Significant progress has been made in the validation process across the agencies within scope of the review period. This phase is an important step in ensuring outcomes are accurate and aligned with the applicable industrial instruments.

Across the broader project, Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ) is progressing towards the remediation phase, while validation work for Townsville Catholic Education (TCE) continues.

To support the remediation process, we have engaged an external remediation partner. This includes the implementation of a secure online claims and payment portal, EnterClaim, which will assist with employee engagement, information collection and payment processing. The use of an independent remediation platform is consistent with established practices used in large remediation programs.

Employees and former employees who are identified as being affected will be contacted directly. The EnterClaim portal will be used to securely collect required information and support the payment process.

CURRENT PHASE

Validation for Townsville Catholic Education (TCE) is ongoing, while Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ) is progressing towards remediation.

AGENCIES AND SCOPE PERIODS:

Mary MacKillop Childcare NQ: September 2016 to June 2023.
Townsville Catholic Education: September 2016 to June 2024.

We remain committed to ensuring all employees during these periods were compensated accurately. Any discrepancies identified will be addressed through back payments, including an interest component where applicable.

As previously communicated, remediation for MMCNQ employees will commence ahead of the TCE phase, with TCE remediation to follow completion of the MMCNQ process.

LAST UPDATED: March / April 2026

NEXT SCHEDULED UPDATE: June 2026

Project Process & Timeline

The Payroll Rectification Project follows a structured, multi-phase approach. The timeline outlines the major stages of the project—from confirming scope and upgrading payroll systems to validating calculations and finalising remediation.

While these stages are presented sequentially, some phases occur in parallel. The current phase involves MMCNQ completing its final validation checks while TCE begins its review ahead of remediation. This ensures alignment, consistency, and accuracy across all agencies.

Timelines may vary depending on the complexity and size of the review. We remain committed to keeping current and former employees informed as key milestones are reached.

Milestones

As part of the Payroll Rectification Project (PRP), our focus remains on ensuring fairness and accuracy for all affected employees within scope.

We are currently:

Finalising the Recalculation phase and progressing through validation, where payroll data and calculations are tested and confirm accuracy before moving into remediation.

Outreach to former employees within scope of the review and has now been completed. If you are in contact with any former colleagues who may have worked with us within the scope period, please encourage them to visit our PRP webpage and register their details via the Former Employee Form. This ensures they receive timely updates and any relevant communications regarding the rectification process.

We are committed to maintaining transparency throughout this process and will continue to provide periodic updates as we progress.

Governance & Transformation

To address the complexities of the Payroll Rectification Project, we have established a dedicated team, supported by skilled external consultants. This collaborative effort ensures accurate recalculations, effective resolutions of discrepancies, and long-term improvements in payroll processes.

The PRP is being conducted in accordance with the expectations of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO). The Roman Catholic Trust Corporation for the Diocese of Townsville (RCTC) are in regular communication with the FWO to ensure the project is managed with transparency, fairness, and accountability.

As part of this work, our agencies have also undertaken a significant transformation project to upgrade its payroll systems, ensuring wages are calculated accurately into the future.

Our shared commitment reflects the values of fairness, accountability, and transparency. For any questions, please contact our Project Coordinator, Michelle Burbidge, at → rctcprp@tsv.catholic.org.au.

Upgraded Payroll System

Significant enhancements have been made to the payroll system to improve accuracy, compliance, and employee confidence. These updates streamline processes, reduce errors, ensure timely payments, and align with regulatory standards, reinforcing our commitment to fair and transparent payroll practices.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

🛠️ How will this rectification process work?

This process involves reviewing historical payroll records to determine whether any payroll adjustments are required.

Affected employees will be contacted if remediation is required. It is important to note that being included in the review scope does not automatically mean adjustments or remuneration will be needed; each case will be assessed individually.

⏳ When can I expect a payment or adjustment?

Once the rectification process is complete and any payroll discrepancies have been verified, payments will be processed and disbursed where adjustments are required.

Affected employees, both past and present, will be informed about the outcome, including the timeline and method of payment, if applicable.

🧾 How will this affect my taxation?

Payments will not require amendments to prior tax lodgements. Instead, these payments will be reported as assessable income for the financial year in which they are received. It is important to note that the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may apply concessional tax rates or averaging provisions when processing your current year’s tax return, depending on your circumstances.

For specific advice tailored to your situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified tax professional. Visit Australia Taxation Office (ATO) for personalised advice.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Will this affect my child support payments or assistance with Services Australia?

Any additional income, including adjustments or back payments, should be reported by you to Services Australia. This could impact the amount of child support you pay or receive, as child support assessments are based on your taxable income.

We recommend that you inform Services Australia promptly to avoid any discrepancies. If needed, seek advice from your consultant. Visit Services Australia for more information.

🧍 What steps should former employees take?

If any discrepancies are identified during the review, affected former employees will be eligible for remediation. We will contact you using the latest contact details we have on file, so please ensure they are up to date. We recommend registering through our Former Employee Register Form to stay informed about the project's progress.

📧 Who can I contact for assistance?

Our Payroll Rectification Team is ready to assist with any concerns or queries you may have. Employees can email rctcprp@tsv.catholic.org.au for support. Former employees are encouraged to complete the Former Employee Register Form available on our webpage so we have the most up-to-date contact information to assist them effectively.

💸 How will remediation payments be processed?

For current employees, remediation payments will be issued through the usual payroll method. Former employees will be contacted to confirm payment details and arrange an appropriate method during the communication process.

🌱 How does this affect my superannuation?

Payments to affected employees will include the appropriate superannuation contributions as required under the Superannuation Guarantee (SG). These contributions will be paid into your superannuation fund along with any back payments.

The information provided in these FAQs is intended as general guidance only and may not cover all specific circumstances. We recommend seeking professional advice to fully understand how the payroll rectification process may impact you based on your individual circumstances. Our team is here to assist you with any unique concerns or questions.

Current Employee Payroll Queries

If you notice any inconsistent payments moving forward, please follow the usual contact process based on your employment area. We encourage all employees to report any concerns with payroll accuracy so they can be addressed promptly and appropriately. Below are the designated contacts for assistance:

TCE STAFF: Reach out to the dedicated payroll team at payrollservices@tsv.catholic.edu.au. Our experienced staff will provide guidance on any discrepancies and ensure your queries are resolved efficiently.

DIOCESAN STAFF: Please contact your direct manager for assistance with payroll-related queries. They will work with the relevant teams to ensure your concerns are addressed appropriately.

MMCNQ STAFF: Contact your Area Manager or Business Manager for support. They are equipped to assist with payroll-related concerns specific to your area of employment.

SAINTS CC STAFF: Your Business Manager is your first point of contact for payroll queries. They’ll ensure your payroll concerns are addressed efficiently with the relevant team.

FAQ Fact Sheet

Looking for more information about the Payroll Rectification Project? Click below to access answers to common questions about the process, timelines, and outcomes.

FAQ Fact Sheet

A WORD FROM BISHOP TIM HARRIS

Dear Staff,

As the Sole Director of the Roman Catholic Trust Corporation for the Diocese of Townsville (RCTC), I am committed to the fair and just remuneration for all employees of the agencies that are administered by the Trust.

I write to advise that our payroll provider, Townsville Catholic Education (TCE), has become aware of inconsistent and incorrect payments that may affect staff of TCE, Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ), Saints Catholic College, Townsville Diocese and Parish Office staff.

An issue was originally identified in 2021 when TCE was undertaking an internal review and this was self-reported to the Fair Work Ombudsman in December 2021.

In the interest of best practice, the scope of the review was expanded which showed other inconsistencies across the agencies noted above.

Since uncovering the issues, focus has been on understanding if there are any potential underpayments and if so, identifying those employees who may be affected, as well as navigating a way to correct errors. To assist in this, I have appointed Sabyne Gough as Project Manager of the Payroll Rectification process. Sabyne is working with a team of delegates from across the agencies as well as working with external consultants, who specialise in assisting organisations with payroll concerns.

This Payroll rectification is of utmost importance to our organisation and will incorporate system improvements so that all staff can have full confidence into the future. This project is highly detailed and will take considerable time and resources. I, therefore, ask for your patience and understanding. Until such time as the quantum of potential errors and identifying employees is known, regular updates will be provided by the Project Manager. These updates and FAQs will be accessible to all staff via this website - payrollproject.tsv.catholic.org.au

I am committed to rectifying any errors and ensuring that you, our most vital employees, are confident that you are being remunerated accurately for the important work you all do across the Diocese.

NOTIFICATION LETTERS FROM OUR PROJECT TEAM

MONDAY 30 MARCH 2026

PRP Project Coordinator has provided a project update to all registered former employees. Read the letter here.

THURSDAY 26 MARCH 2026

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across TCE. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across MMCNQ. Read the letter here.

MONDAY 1 DECEMBER 2025

PRP Project Coordinator has provided a project update to all registered former employees. Read the letter here.

FRIDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2025

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across TCE. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across MMCNQ. Read the letter here.

FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 2025

PRP Project Coordinator has provided a project update to all registered former employees. Read the letter here.

WEDNESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 2025

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across TCE Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across MMCNQ Read the letter here.

THURSDAY 5 JUNE 2025

PRP Project Coordinator has provided a project update to all registered former employees. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across the Diocese. Read the letter here.

TUESDAY 3 JUNE 2025

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across TCE. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across MMCNQ. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided an update to all staff across SCC. Read the letter here.

MARCH - MAY 2025

PRP Project Coordinator has provided outreach to former employees about registration for the project. Read the letter here.

TUESDAY 21 JANUARY 2025

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across MMCNQ. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across Saints CC. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across the Diocesan. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all registered former employees across the agencies. Read the letter here.

FRIDAY 22 NOVEMBER 2024

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across Diocesan. Read the letter here.

FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2024

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across Saints CC. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across MMCNQ. Read the letter here.

THURSDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 2024

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE, MMCNQ, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

FRIDAY 28 JUNE 2024

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across MMCNQ, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE. Read the letter here.

MONDAY 22 APRIL 2024

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE, MMCNQ, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

TUESDAY 12 MARCH 2024

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE, MMCNQ, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

MONDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 2023

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE, MMCNQ, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

MONDAY 24 APRIL 2023

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across MMCNQ. Read the letter here.

WEDNESDAY 12 OCTOBER 2022

PRP Project Manager has provided a project update to all staff across TCE, MMCNQ, Saints CC and Diocesan staff. Read the letter here.

FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 2022

Bishop Tim Harris issued a letter through Townsville Catholic Diocese Agency Heads advising staff of a payroll issue that has been identified. Bishop Tim has made a commitment through the Project Manager that regular updates will be provided to all staff. Read the letter here.

Need Assistance or Have Questions?

If you require further information or support, our dedicated Payroll Rectification Team is here to help. Whether you have queries about the project or concerns that need addressing, we encourage you to reach out to us using the contact details below.

📧EMAIL US | You can email our project team directly at rctcprp@tsv.catholic.org.au for prompt assistance.

💼 FORMER EMPLOYEES | If you are a former or past employee, please complete the Former Employee Contact Form by clicking the link below. Our team will ensure your enquiry is prioritised and handled with care. Access the Former Employee Register Form

Our team strives to respond to all enquiries at the earliest convenience. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to address your concerns promptly.

PROJECT TEAM CONTACTS

MICHELLE BURBIDGE

PROJECT COORDINATOR

Email: rctcprp@tsv.catholic.org.au | mburbidge12@tsv.catholic.org.au

MARY HEALY

PROJECT ADMINISTRATION OFFICER

Email: rctcprp@tsv.catholic.org.au | mhealy1@tsv.catholic.org.au

Phone: 0747 263 236

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)

As an employee of the Roman Catholic Trust Corporation for the Diocese of Townsville, you can access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

🏢 CENTACARE NORTH QUEENSLAND | 1300 672 273

FORMER EMPLOYEES

If you are a former team member, please use the Former Employee Register Form to provide your most current contact details. This ensures we can keep you informed with important updates and communications about the Payroll Rectification Project — just as we do for current employees.

Former Employee Register Form

🛡️ PRIVACY & DATA PROTECTION

The Roman Catholic Trust Corporation for the Diocese of Townsville is dedicated to safeguarding personal information throughout the Payroll Rectification Project (PRP). We adhere to strict privacy standards and Australian laws to ensure all data is managed securely and responsibly.

For more detailed information, please refer to our Privacy Policy and Data Protection Policy available on this webpage.

Report abuse