Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2025-07-17-brenton-gietzel-penalty-media-release
At a glance
- Respondent
- Queensland Made
- Penalty
- $11,000
- Employees affected
- 4
What happened
the Applicant, the former operator of 'Queensland Made' in Toowoomba, was penalised by the Federal Circuit and Family Court. The business manufactured and sold wooden furniture. The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated after receiving requests for assistance from four workers, including a full-time apprentice cabinet maker and three casual employees. The workers were employed between January 2022 and October 2023. A Fair Work Inspector issued two Compliance Notices related to underpayments of wages, public holidays, personal leave, and annual leave entitlements under the Timber Industry Award 2020. The business is no longer trading and the workers are estimated to be owed approximately $38,000.
What was decided
The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed penalties of $11,000 against the Applicant for breaching pay slip laws and failing to comply with Compliance Notices. The court ordered him to calculate and rectify any underpayments, plus interest and superannuation. the Commissioner stated that legal action would be taken against employers who fail to act on Compliance Notices. The FWO estimates the four workers are owed approximately $38,000. The Compliance Notices required the Applicant to calculate and rectify any underpayments to the four workers.
What it means for employers
Employers must comply with Compliance Notices issued by the Fair Work Ombudsman. Failure to do so can result in court-imposed penalties. Employers should also be aware of their obligations to protect young workers, including apprentices, and ensure they receive their correct entitlements. The FWO offers free online courses to help employers understand Compliance Notices.
What it means for employees
Employees who believe they have been underpaid or are not receiving their correct entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free assistance. Information and support are available through the Fair Work Infoline and website.
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This summary was drafted 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 →