Companies that deliberately underpay workers could face fines under new wage theft laws coming into effect in the Australian state of Victoria today, reports ABC News Australia. Individuals who deliberately underpay staff or dishonestly withhold wages could face up to 10 years' jail, or fines over AUD 200,000 (USD 149,732). For companies, the possible fine can be as high as AUD 1,090,000 (USD 816,082). The laws come off the back of a host of high-profile underpayment cases. Australia’s Fair Work Ombudsman can still pursue civil penalties for alleged underpayment, but a new Victorian body, Wage Inspectorate Victoria, has the power to recommend criminal penalties.