Fair Work Ombudsman
At a glance
- $450,000
- 365
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated 51 fast food outlets, restaurants, and cafés in southern Brisbane. These inspections, part of a national Food Precincts Program, found 44 businesses (86%) breached workplace laws. A total of 365 employees were underpaid, with $447,339 recovered. One business owed almost $80,000 to 27 employees, including nine visa holders. The investigation also revealed breaches related to penalty rates, minimum wages, and record-keeping. The largest amount recovered from any one business was almost $80,000 for 27 restaurant employees.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered $447,339 for 365 underpaid employees and issued 43 Infringement Notices, resulting in $162,045 in fines for pay slip and record-keeping breaches. Thirty-nine Compliance Notices were issued. The regulator emphasized the importance of employers following wage laws and maintaining accurate records. Previous audits have recovered over $1.2 million for Brisbane food workers. The FWO has interactive tools to help employers and employees.
What it means for employers
Employers in the food sector must ensure compliance with all wage laws, including penalty rates, and maintain accurate pay slips and records. Failure to do so can result in significant fines and recovery of underpaid wages. The FWO offers free online tools and advice to help businesses meet their obligations.
What it means for employees
Employees, including visa holders, have the same workplace rights as other workers. Those with concerns about wages and entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman, even anonymously.
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