Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2024-08-01-south-east-melbourne-food-outlets-wages-recoveries-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $58,000
- Employees affected
- 121
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated 32 food businesses in south-east Melbourne, including venues in Bentleigh, Carnegie, and Clayton. These inspections followed intelligence from various sources, including anonymous reports. The investigation found 26 businesses (81%) breached workplace laws. A total of 121 employees were underpaid, with one business owing up to $13,071 to four casual workers. The total amount recovered was over $58,000.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered more than $58,000 in underpayments for 121 employees. Twenty-two Compliance Notices were issued, and $31,461 in fines were issued for record-keeping and payslip breaches. The Fair Work Ombudsman stated that employers must follow wage laws and access available resources. The Fair Work Ombudsman has recovered over $1.2 million for workers in Melbourne’s fast food, restaurants and cafés sector through the Food Precincts Program.
What it means for employers
Employers in the food sector must ensure they are complying with all wage laws, including minimum wages and penalty rates. They should utilise the Fair Work Ombudsman’s online tools and resources, or seek direct advice, to meet their obligations. Failure to do so can result in significant financial penalties and fines.
What it means for employees
Employees in the food sector should be aware of their workplace rights and entitlements. If they suspect they are being underpaid or have concerns about their wages, they should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman, even anonymously.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2024-media-releases/august-2024/20240801-south-east-melbourne-food-outlets-wages-recoveries-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 →