ACT campaign returns $16k to local workers
The Fair Work Ombudsman today released the findings of a recent campaign in the ACT.
Spot checks of 76 local businesses found:
- 43 (57 per cent) were compliant with all their workplace responsibilities,
- 57(75 per cent) were paying their employees correctly, and
- 58 (76 per cent) were compliant with their record-keeping and pay-slip obligations.
Nineteen businesses were asked to back-pay a total of $16,385 to 24 of their employees who had been short-changed.
One employer, the operator of a Nando’s restaurant, signed an Enforceable Undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman after it was revealed the business had underpaid its workers more than $27,000.
Media release: Nando's restaurant signs workplace pact after short-changing young workers more than $27,000
Fair Work inspectors issued a Letter of Caution to another business, placing it on notice that further breaches of workplace laws could result in enforcement action.
Businesses were randomly selected throughout the northern suburbs, including Macquarie, Gungahlin, Dickson and Braddon.
Inspectors focused on a range of industries, including retail, hairdressing and accommodation and food services.
Key stakeholders were advised, including the Canberra Business Chamber, North Canberra Community Council, Belconnen Community Council and Gungahlin Community Council.
Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James says employers found to be non-complaint will be re-audited as part of the Agency’s ongoing National Compliance Monitoring Campaign.
Fair Work inspectors informed employers about the range of free tools and resources available to them on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website at www.fairwork.gov.au.
Source: Fair Work Ombudsman, 4th July 2016
