Fair Work Ombudsman
At a glance
- $760,405
- 464
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) conducted a three-year Horticulture Strategy (2021-2024) inspecting over 500 employers across 15 regional hotspots. Inspections targeted farms, orchards, and labour hire providers. The Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley in Victoria had the highest non-compliance rate (83%), followed by the Riverina in NSW (72%). Labour hire providers consistently had higher breach rates than direct growers. The FWO issued fines and recovered unpaid wages for 464 underpaid workers.
What was decided
The FWO’s Horticulture compliance report revealed significant non-compliance issues, particularly in Victoria and NSW. Inspectors will return to the five least-compliant regions, focusing on labour hire providers. The FWO issued $760,405 in fines, primarily to labour hire providers, and recovered $384,168 in wages. The FWO emphasizes the need for industry collaboration and awareness of free resources to improve compliance.
What it means for employers
Employers, especially labour hire providers, in horticulture regions like the Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Riverina, Sunraysia, and Shepparton should review their record-keeping and pay slip practices. The FWO will be conducting further inspections, so ensuring compliance with workplace laws is crucial. Direct growers also need to be aware of their obligations.
What it means for employees
Workers in the horticulture sector, particularly those on working holidays, visas, or employed through labour hire providers, should be aware of their workplace rights and entitlements. If you suspect underpayment or non-compliance, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.
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