Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2026-02-20-caretodance-and-basescu-failure-to-comply-litigation-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $24,469
- Employees affected
- 1
What happened
CareToDance Pty Ltd, a Sydney dance studio, and its director, Cristian Basescu, are facing legal action from the Fair Work Ombudsman. This follows a Fair Work Commission order in December 2024 requiring CareToDance to pay $24,469 in compensation to a former dance instructor, a Filipino national on a skilled working visa, who was unfairly dismissed in July 2024 after being employed since January 2023. The company failed to comply with the compensation order, prompting the legal action.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against CareToDance Pty Ltd and Cristian Basescu for failing to comply with a Fair Work Commission order to pay $24,469 compensation to a former employee. CareToDance faces a potential penalty of up to $99,000, and Mr Basescu faces a penalty of up to $19,800. The FWO is also seeking a court order for the outstanding compensation, plus interest. A directions hearing is scheduled for March 23, 2026.
What it means for employers
Employers must comply with Fair Work Commission orders. Failing to do so can result in significant penalties, up to $99,000 for the company and $19,800 for directors. The Fair Work Ombudsman prioritises protecting vulnerable workers, including visa holders, and will take legal action to enforce compliance.
What it means for employees
Visa holder employees have workplace protections and should seek assistance from the Fair Work Ombudsman if they believe their rights have been violated. Employees who have been unfairly dismissed are entitled to compensation, and the FWO will take action to ensure they receive it.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2026-media-releases/february-2026/20260220-caretodance-and-basescu-failure-to-comply-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 →