Fair Work Ombudsman
At a glance
- RiverCity Bus Service
- $14,000
- 1
What happened
the Applicant, who operates RiverCity Bus Service in Queensland, was penalized for unlawfully requiring a casual bus driver to repay JobKeeper payments. Between 2017 and 2020, the Applicant received fortnightly JobKeeper payments of $1500 for the driver. He then required the driver to repay amounts equal to the difference between the net JobKeeper payment and the driver’s wages. In total, the driver repaid $5805. In September 2020, the Applicant also failed to pass on the full JobKeeper payment to the driver. A Fair Work Inspector investigated after the driver requested assistance.
What was decided
The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed a $14,000 penalty against the Applicant for breaching the Fair Work Act. The court described his conduct as 'reprehensible', 'deliberate', and 'calculated'. the Applicant has already back-paid the driver $6270.40 to rectify the underpayments. the Commissioner emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of government programs and warned against cashbacks. Judge Vasta highlighted the breach of trust and lack of apology from the Applicant.
What it means for employers
Employers must ensure they comply with all legal requirements when receiving and distributing government assistance payments like JobKeeper. Requiring employees to repay wages or portions of government assistance is generally unlawful and can result in significant penalties. Transparency and adherence to the Fair Work Act are crucial.
What it means for employees
Employees who receive government assistance payments through their employer are entitled to receive the full amount. If an employer requires repayment of wages or portions of government assistance, employees should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for assistance.
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