Recovering lost wages is a significant challenge for underpaid migrant workers in Australia. Despite efforts to address this issue through the federal court process, many workers never see the wages they are owed. Challenges with the Small Claims Process Our research shows that the small claims process, intended to provide a simple way for workers to claim unpaid wages, is often inaccessible without legal support. The Fair Work Act aims to protect workers' rights, but without effective enforcement, many vulnerable workers continue to be exploited. The Struggle to Fight Underpayment A study reveals that hundreds of thousands of workers in Australia were paid below the minimum wage in recent years. However, many of them do not take action to recover their unpaid wages due to the perceived risks and costs involved. Barriers to Justice Using a fictional example, we illustrate the complexities faced by workers seeking to recover lost wages. From identifying employers to navigating court processes, the challenges are numerous. Calls for Reform Urgent reforms are needed to make the small claims process more accessible and effective for all workers. This includes expanding legal services for migrants, simplifying court procedures, and guaranteeing payment for workers with court orders. A Path to Change As the government reviews the small claims process, there is an opportunity to implement meaningful reforms that protect the rights of migrant workers. By ensuring access to justice and addressing exploitation, Australia can create a fairer workplace for all. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article for more information.