Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2023-02-22-perth-frac-audits-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $1,660,000
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman is conducting surprise inspections of approximately 50 food outlets in Perth, including Belmont, Victoria Park, and East Victoria Park. These inspections are part of a national program targeting food precincts. They are checking for underpayments and ensuring workers receive correct pay and entitlements. The inspections follow intelligence suggesting potential underpayments, particularly affecting vulnerable workers like visa holders and students. Businesses were selected based on factors like anonymous reports and employing vulnerable workers.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman is holding employers accountable for meeting their obligations. Inspections are underway to identify breaches, including unlawfully low flat rates, unpaid hours, and failures to provide pay slips. In 2021-22, the FWO secured $1.66 million in penalties and recovered over $13 million for underpaid employees in the fast food, restaurant, and café sector. Workers with concerns are encouraged to contact the FWO for assistance.
What it means for employers
Employers in the food sector, especially those employing vulnerable workers, need to ensure they are complying with workplace laws and paying correct entitlements. The Fair Work Ombudsman is actively inspecting businesses and taking enforcement action for non-compliance. Using resources like the FWO's pay calculator and Small Business Showcase can help ensure compliance.
What it means for employees
Employees, particularly visa holders and students, should be aware of their workplace rights and entitlements. If they suspect underpayment or other breaches, they should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free and confidential assistance. An interpreter service is available.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2023-media-releases/february-2023/20230222-perth-frac-audits-media-releaseWant more cases like this?
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This summary was drafted by AI from the published decision and reviewed before publishing. It is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, speak to the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified lawyer. About these summaries & corrections →