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FWOFair Work Ombudsman · 22 September 2024

Fair Work Ombudsman

Citation: FWO-2024-09-23-double-hao-penalty-media-release

At a glance

Respondent
Double Hao International Pty Ltd
Penalty
$11,990
Employees affected
1
Awards cited
MA000173

What happened

The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated 'The Springs Milkbar' in Clifton Springs, Victoria, and its parent company, Double Hao International Pty Ltd, following a request for assistance from a retail worker. The worker was employed between March 2018 and November 2020. The investigation found the company failed to comply with a Compliance Notice regarding underpayment of minimum casual wages and loadings. Company director Rong Liu was also involved in the contravention.

What was decided

The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed penalties of $9,990 against Double Hao International Pty Ltd and $2,000 against Rong Liu. The court also ordered Double Hao International to pay $3,970 to the worker, representing the estimated loss due to the failure to comply with the Compliance Notice. The Fair Work Ombudsman emphasised that failing to act on Compliance Notices can result in penalties and back-pay orders. The worker received assistance from the Fair Work Ombudsman.

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 penalties and orders to back-pay workers. Businesses should ensure they understand their obligations under workplace laws and award conditions.

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. There are resources available to help understand workplace rights and obligations.

underpaymentgeneral-protectionspenalty-ratesmodern-award-variationcompliance-notice

Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2024-media-releases/september-2024/20240923-double-hao-penalty-media-release

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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 →

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