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Court Finds Gloriavale Leavers Were Employees, Unpaid Wages Claims

8/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former Gloriavale members filed lawsuits seeking unpaid wages, compensation and slavery declarations.
The Employment Court ruled in 2022 and 2023 that nine leavers were employees, not volunteers.
The nine claimants initially sought $5.2 million in lost wages and compensation.
Documents show 61 additional former members filed similar unpaid-work claims.
Barrister Stephen Patterson calculated 41% of male claimants suffered lifelong injuries such as crushed hands.

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Story summary

Former Gloriavale members filed lawsuits seeking unpaid wages, compensation and slavery declarations.
The Employment Court ruled in 2022 and 2023 that nine leavers were employees, not volunteers.
The nine claimants initially sought $5.2 million in lost wages and compensation.
Documents show 61 additional former members filed similar unpaid-work claims.
Barrister Stephen Patterson calculated 41% of male claimants suffered lifelong injuries such as crushed hands.