Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2023-06-02-aisha-umma-penalty-media-release
At a glance
- Respondent
- Aisha & Umma Enterprises Pty Ltd
- Penalty
- $42,000
- Employees affected
- 13
- Awards cited
- MA000173
What happened
Aisha & Umma Enterprises Pty Ltd, formerly trading as RMB Café in Melbourne, has been penalized by the Federal Circuit and Family Court. The company failed to comply with a Compliance Notice regarding underpayments to 13 food and beverage attendants and cooks. These employees worked at the café between May 2017 and August 2019. The Fair Work Ombudsman began an investigation as part of Melbourne food precinct audits.
What was decided
The Court imposed a $15,125 penalty on Aisha & Umma Enterprises for failing to comply with the Compliance Notice. The company must also pay a total of $27,516 in outstanding wages, plus superannuation and interest, to the 13 workers. Judge Catherine Symons noted that some workers are still owed over $4,000 each. The decision highlights the consequences of not acting on Compliance Notices and the importance of general deterrence in the café and restaurant industry.
What it means for employers
Employers must comply with Compliance Notices issued by the Fair Work Ombudsman. Failure to do so can result in significant court-imposed penalties and back-payment obligations. The Fair Work Ombudsman prioritizes compliance in the fast food, restaurant, and café sector.
What it means for employees
Employees who believe they have been underpaid or are not receiving their correct entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance. Interpreter services are 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/june-2023/20230602-aisha-umma-penalty-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 →