Fair Work Ombudsman
At a glance
- $310,000
- 370
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated 36 fast food outlets, restaurants, and cafés in Adelaide's western suburbs. Inspections were based on intelligence from various sources, including anonymous reports. Investigations found 26 businesses, representing 79% of those inspected, had breached workplace laws. These breaches included failing to pay penalty rates, underpaying minimum wages, and record-keeping and pay slip breaches. A total of 370 employees were underpaid, with the largest amount recovered from one business being $65,986 for 10 employees.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered $310,017 for 370 underpaid employees. Sixteen infringement notices were issued for pay slip and record-keeping breaches, resulting in $103,156 in fines. Twenty-six Compliance Notices were issued, recovering $272,991 for 332 workers. Some employers voluntarily back-paid wages. Investigations into three businesses are ongoing. The Fair Work Ombudsman emphasized the importance of compliance and urged businesses to use available resources.
What it means for employers
Employers in the food sector must comply with all wage laws, including penalty rates. Maintaining accurate records and providing correct payslips is essential. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides free online tools and resources to help businesses meet their obligations. Failure to comply can result in significant fines and penalties.
What it means for employees
Employees in the fast food, restaurant, and café sector have workplace rights and should report any concerns about wages or entitlements to the Fair Work Ombudsman, even anonymously. Visa holder workers have the same rights as other employees.
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