Fair Work Ombudsman
Citation: FWO-2026-03-11-anl-litigation-media-release
At a glance
- Respondent
- Australian Native Landscapes Pty Ltd
- Penalty
- $35,000
- Employees affected
- 4
What happened
The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against Australian Native Landscapes Pty Ltd, a landscaping and gardening materials company based in New South Wales. The company allegedly underpaid four workers a total of $35,716 between 2020 and 2023. The workers held positions including labourer, driver, excavator and were located at Orange, Tea Gardens, Terrey Hills, and Cooranbong. Alleged underpayments included minimum hourly rates, casual loading, annual and personal leave, and overtime. One worker has been fully back-paid, while the others have received partial back-payments.
What was decided
The Fair Work Ombudsman is seeking penalties against Australian Native Landscapes Pty Ltd for multiple alleged contraventions of workplace laws. Penalties could reach up to $41,250 per breach. The FWO also seeks an order for the company to rectify outstanding underpayments, including superannuation and interest. A directions hearing is scheduled for March 13, 2026, in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Sydney. The Fair Work Ombudsman encourages employees with pay concerns to seek assistance.
What it means for employers
Employers must ensure they are complying with workplace laws and paying employees their full legal entitlements. The Fair Work Ombudsman is prepared to take legal action against companies that fail to do so, resulting in significant penalties and back-payment obligations. Regular audits of pay practices are recommended.
What it means for employees
Employees who believe they have been underpaid or denied their entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance. There are resources available to help understand your rights and how to seek redress.
Every statement above is drawn from the published decision. Read the original here:
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/media-releases/2026-media-releases/march-2026/20260311-anl-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 →