Hey, I am with you! However, there is not much that you can do other than publish things like this.
I have had the same experience with a few employers here, but what I have learnt is that Freelancer does not (and cannot) protect you unless you have requested a milestone payment to be made before you begin working.
So - my advice to you, never begin working before a milestone is in place! It does not matter when the payment will be made, i.e. the milestone released, you are still safe that funds have been set aside for your work.
Good luck in the future!