A recent random audit conducted by Fair Work investigators found that two employees, including an Indian national on a 457 skilled work visa, were underpaid a total of $6,600.
After the issue was brought to the attention of the business by Fair Work investigators, the two employees were back-paid in full without any need for enforcement action.
“Simply putting an employee on a salary or a flat rate do es not relieve an employer of the obligation to ensure that all Award entitlements are being met,” says Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James.
“Employers also need to be aware that they must maintain proper employment records and issue pay-slips on a timely basis.”
The Fair Work Ombudsman recovered $22.3 million for 11,613 underpaid workers nationally in the 2014-15 financial year and of this, $7.59 million was recovered for 4809 workers in Victoria, including $268,000 for 83 workers in the Geelong area.
Yesterday, a separate investigation conducted by the Fair Work Ombudsman found that three apprentice chefs working in foodservice venue in Coffs Harbour were underpaid over $22,000.
Investigators found that an adult apprentice aged in his mid-20s was underpaid a total of $9,500 while working in a local caf over a seven month period. Investigators also found that a further two apprentice chefs working at a local restaurant were underpaid close to $13,000 due to incorrect weekend, public holiday and overtime rates over a six month period.
