Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2024-03-08-ansa-penalty-media-release
At a glance
- Respondent
- Ansa Finance Pty Ltd
- Penalty
- $100,000
- Employees affected
- 5
- Awards cited
- MA000073
What happened
Ansa Finance Pty Ltd, a Melbourne-based mortgage broking business, and its manager, the Respondent, have been penalized for failing to backpay five workers and issue pay slips. The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated after receiving requests for assistance from the workers, who were employed as finance brokers between February 2020 and November 2021. The workers were underpaid an estimated total of over $17,000 in minimum wages, leave entitlements, and payment-in-lieu-of-notice. A Fair Work Inspector issued five Compliance Notices to Ansa Finance.
What was decided
The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed penalties totaling $83,250 against Ansa Finance and $16,650 against the Respondent. The court ordered Ansa Finance to comply with the Compliance Notices, including rectifying the underpayments with interest and superannuation. Judge Forbes found the failures were deliberate and the Respondent did not take corrective action. The court emphasized the importance of complying with Compliance Notices to deter future breaches.
What it means for employers
Employers must take Compliance Notices seriously and act upon them promptly. Failure to do so can result in substantial penalties and legal action. Demonstrating remorse and taking corrective steps are important considerations for the court.
What it means for employees
Employees who believe they have been underpaid or are experiencing issues with their entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance. The Fair Work Ombudsman is there to protect employee rights.
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https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2024-media-releases/march-2024/20240308-ansa-penalty-media-releaseSend your details to Liquid Employment Lawyers
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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