Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2023-03-03-perth-security-report-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $360,000
- Employees affected
- 102
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated 13 security businesses in Perth following concerns about workplace law compliance. Investigations concluded for 12 businesses, revealing that nine (75%) were non-compliant. A total of 102 security guards and supervisors were underpaid by eight businesses. The most common breaches involved failing to pay penalty rates for weekend, shift, public holiday, and other loadings, and failing to pay overtime rates. $368,666 was recovered and two infringement notices were issued for pay slip and record-keeping breaches.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered $368,666 for 102 underpaid security guards and supervisors. Eight businesses were found to have underpaid workers, and two received infringement notices totaling $3,108 for failing to provide proper payslips and records. The Ombudsman emphasized the need for the security industry to improve compliance with workplace laws, particularly regarding penalty rates. One business remains under investigation, and all non-compliant businesses were warned of potential further enforcement action.
What it means for employers
Security businesses must ensure they are paying employees all correct penalty rates, overtime rates, and providing accurate payslips and records. The Fair Work Ombudsman will take enforcement action against businesses that fail to meet their obligations, including issuing infringement notices and potential further penalties.
What it means for employees
Security guards and supervisors in Perth should check their payslips to ensure they are receiving all correct entitlements, including penalty rates and overtime. Employees with concerns about their wages should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for assistance.
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This summary was drafted 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