'Sickie bonus' popular in NT

Northern Territory employers are so concerned about the region's skills shortage many are offering to pay workers not to take sick leave.

Speaking to news.com.au, the Territory Construction Association's Graham Kemp says the so-called 'sickie bonus' is now a widespread practice, particularly in the building industry.

The article claims many workers are being paid a bonus of up to $100 a week to avoid taking a sickie.

In addition, many Territory employers are paying in-demand tradesmen above award wages in a bid to retain their services.