Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2026-02-25-villa-romana-eu-media-release
At a glance
- Penalty
- $87,000
- Employees affected
- 76
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated Villa Romana restaurant in Cairns, owned by Mesa 3 Pty Ltd and Helen Papagelou (as trustees of the Ex-RPH Trust). An investigation, following a 2023 inspection, found the restaurant underpaid 76 employees, including those on working holiday and student visas, by a total of $86,873 between May and October 2023. Underpayments related to weekend penalty rates, overtime, split shift allowances, and base rates. The restaurant engaged kitchen and front-of-house staff.
What was decided
Villa Romana has signed an Enforceable Undertaking (EU) with the Fair Work Ombudsman. The restaurant must back-pay $86,873 in underpayments to 76 employees. They must also pay a $40,000 contrition payment to the Australian Government. The EU requires Villa Romana to conduct compliance audits, provide workplace relations training to payroll and management staff, and undertake an employee survey. The Fair Work Ombudsman considered the restaurant’s cooperation and corrective actions when deciding on the EU.
What it means for employers
Employers, particularly in the food and beverage sector, must maintain accurate and complete record-keeping practices. Failing to do so can lead to significant penalties and Enforceable Undertakings. Ensuring compliance with penalty rates, overtime, and other entitlements is essential. Small businesses should utilise the Fair Work Ombudsman’s resources, including templates, online courses, and the Employer Advisory Service, to ensure wage compliance.
What it means for employees
Employees, especially visa holders, should track their hours worked and be aware of their entitlements, including penalty rates. The Fair Work Ombudsman encourages employees to seek assistance if they suspect underpayment. The Record My Hours app can help employees monitor their hours.
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-2026/20260225-villa-romana-eu-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 →