Pay rates for extra's

I was an MEAA member for many years, but upon leaving Sydney and relocating in Newcastle, I was surprised to learn that the rates are not strictly enforced, nor will MEAA do anything to pursue unscrupulous agents/agencies who underpay. My wife and I (freelance) were contracted to provide voice-over services for a large advertising company in Newcastle. We were assured that the contracts would be at the studio and proceeded to do the work. Not only did the ads go to air well in advance of any payment, but later we both received cheques for a paltry $120.00. MEAA were not interested in pursuing this, citing that Newcastle only had a dozen or so members and that is wasn't feasible for them to pursue the agency. Despite numerous protests, I was advised that they couldn't enforce the payment of the appropriate rate. My advice? Check with MEAA as to what they are prepared to do for you, should you require association backing! Needless to say, my wife and I are no longer an MEAA members which has not hampered our ability to secure professional work. If anything, it has made us more vigilant in negotiating contractual matters up front!