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FWOFair Work Ombudsman · 6 November 2025

Fair Work Ombudsman

Citation: FWO-2025-11-07-bryan-builders-pty-ltd-cn-litigation-media-release

At a glance

Penalty
$13,027
Employees affected
2

What happened

The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against Bryan Builders Pty Ltd, a carpentry business based in Bayswater, Melbourne. The action follows requests for assistance from two young workers, aged 20 and 21, who were employed as apprentices between February 2019 and February 2023. It is alleged the company failed to pay accrued annual leave entitlements and apprenticeship tuition fees, in breach of the Building and Construction General On-Site Award 2010 and 2020. A Compliance Notice was issued in September 2023, which Bryan Builders allegedly failed to comply with.

What was decided

The Fair Work Ombudsman is seeking a penalty of up to $46,950 against Bryan Builders Pty Ltd for failing to comply with a Compliance Notice. The company is also required to pay the alleged $13,027 in unpaid entitlements, plus interest. A directions hearing is scheduled for January 2026 in the Federal Circuit and Family Court. The Fair Work Ombudsman has recovered over $16.5 million in unpaid entitlements in the building and construction sector since November 2022.

What it means for employers

Employers, particularly in the building and construction industry, must ensure they are meeting all employee entitlements, including annual leave and apprenticeship tuition fees. Failure to comply with Compliance Notices can result in significant penalties. Employers should review their payroll practices and seek advice if unsure about their obligations.

What it means for employees

Young workers and apprentices should be aware of their workplace rights and entitlements. If you have concerns about your pay or entitlements, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance. Information and support are available on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website and through interpreters.

underpaymentpenalty-ratesapprenticesgeneral-protectionsmodern-award-variationcompliance-notice

Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2025-media-releases/november-2025/20251107-bryan-builders-pty-ltd-cn-litigation-media-release

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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 →

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