Victorian junior doctors win $175 million in backpay

Junior doctors in Victoria have won a $175 million settlement for unpaid overtime, benefiting about 15,000 staff who worked at public hospitals since January 2015. Many did not claim overtime due to lack of awareness or fear of career repercussions. The settlement follows a successful legal case involving a doctor at Frankston Hospital, which led to a class action against multiple health services. The agreement is pending approval from the Federal Court and could be finalized by April. Doctors are encouraged to register for the settlement, with payments expected to be distributed by late 2026. The final amounts will vary based on individual cases and legal fees.