Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2025-12-01-hamze-cn-litigation-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $19,019
- Employees affected
- 3
- Awards cited
- MA000017, MA000027
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against Salem Hamze, the former director and part-owner of Lortoc No. 60 Pty Ltd. The company previously operated 'Hakuna Ma’Coffee' and 'Ric & Co' cafes and kiosks in Redcliffe, Queensland. Three workers employed between September 2022 and March 2023 requested assistance from the Fair Work Ombudsman. A Compliance Notice was issued in December 2023 after an inspector believed the company underpaid minimum wages, penalty rates, and annual leave entitlements under the Fast Food Industry Award 2020, Restaurant Industry Award 2020, and National Employment Standards. The company owed approximately $19,019 in unpaid entitlements. Hakuna Ma’Coffee and Ric & Co are now closed and Lortoc No. 60 Pty Ltd has been deregistered.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman is taking court action against Salem Hamze for his alleged involvement in the company's failure to comply with the Compliance Notice and for alleged breaches of the Fair Work Act and Regulations regarding pay slips. The Ombudsman is seeking penalties against Mr Hamze. He faces penalties of up to $9,390 for the Compliance Notice breach, and up to $13,320 and $16,500 for each pay slip contravention. A directions hearing is scheduled for December 8, 2025, in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Brisbane.
What it means for employers
Employers, particularly in the fast food, restaurant, and café sectors, must ensure they comply with workplace laws, including paying correct entitlements and providing accurate pay slips. Failure to do so can result in significant penalties and legal action.
What it means for employees
Employees who have concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free assistance. Employers must provide pay slips within one business day of payment, detailing all relevant information.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2025-media-releases/december-2025/20251201-hamze-cn-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 →