Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2024-08-08-cairns-food-outlets-wage-recoveries-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $217,000
- Employees affected
- 209
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated 35 food outlets in Cairns, including fast food restaurants, cafes, and cheap eats venues. The investigations, prompted by anonymous reports, found 23 businesses, or 74%, breached workplace laws. A total of 209 employees were underpaid. The largest amount recovered from a single business was $46,576 for six employees who were cooks, kitchen hands, and bar attendants. The investigation also resulted in 11 infringement notices for record-keeping and payslip breaches.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered $217,806 for 209 underpaid employees. The regulator issued 23 Compliance Notices and 11 Infringement Notices. One business recovered $46,576 for six employees. The breaches included failing to pay penalty rates, underpaying minimum wages, and not paying the right allowances. Investigations into four businesses are ongoing. The total back-pay for Queensland workers in the fast food sector is now over $1.15 million.
What it means for employers
Employers in the food sector must comply with all wage laws, including penalty rates. The Fair Work Ombudsman is actively targeting non-compliance, particularly in low-cost dining venues. Employers should use available online tools and resources or contact the FWO for assistance to ensure they meet their obligations.
What it means for employees
Employees have the right to be paid correctly, including penalty rates and allowances. Workers can report concerns about wages and entitlements anonymously to the Fair Work Ombudsman. Visa holder workers have the same workplace rights as other employees.
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-2024/20240808-cairns-food-outlets-wage-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 →