Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2025-02-07-echuca-kebabs-litigation-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $41,250
- Employees affected
- 1
- Awards cited
- MA000173
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman has taken legal action against Echuca Kebabs Pty Ltd and its sole director, Zekeriye Bilir. This followed a request for assistance from a worker employed between 2017 and 2022. A Fair Work Inspector issued a Compliance Notice in February 2023, alleging the company failed to pass on JobKeeper payments received in 2020 and 2021 and underpaid minimum wages and annual leave entitlements under the Fast Food Industry Award 2010. The company allegedly failed to comply with the Compliance Notice.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman is seeking penalties against Echuca Kebabs Pty Ltd (up to $41,250) and Zekeriye Bilir (up to $8,250) for failing to comply with the Compliance Notice. The court is also expected to order the company to calculate and rectify any underpayments, including interest and superannuation. A directions hearing is scheduled for February 14, 2025.
What it means for employers
Employers, particularly in the fast food, restaurant, and cafe sectors, must ensure they pass on any government payments received to employees and comply with Compliance Notices issued by the Fair Work Ombudsman. Failure to do so can result in significant penalties.
What it means for employees
Employees who believe they have been underpaid or not received JobKeeper payments they are entitled to should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2025-media-releases/february-2025/20250207-echuca-kebabs-litigation-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 →