AUSTRALIA | Three Taiwanese restaurants have been fined following an investigation by the Fair Work Ombudsman into underpaid migrant workers.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has secured AUD four million in court-ordered penalties against the former operators of three different Taiwanese restaurants. The former operators were found to have deliberately and systematically underpaid vulnerable international migrant workers and operated whilst using false records. The Restaurant & Catering Association has urged its members to reach out for support and advice in times of employment despair.
The total penalties imposed by the Federal Court are the second-highest ever secured in the Fair Work Ombudsman’s history. Ombudsman Booth commented that the penalties demonstrated the serious nature of the offending that resulted in vulnerable migrant workers being underpaid hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The Restaurant & Catering Association (R&CA) has reminded its members of the importance of being compliant and getting it right with employees' wages. R&CA CEO, Suresh Manickam said it was vital for employers to have the basic employment law information at their fingertips should they need it.
"With so many changes in workplace laws, it's important to know what’s right, and if you don’t know, we are here to support you," said Manickam.
With the cost of living pressures rising and tighter conditions for businesses being implemented, Manickam said that being able to know what the necessary protocol was would make the job of an employer far easier.
"Making informed decisions about wages and employees entitlements will make a difference to your bottom line," added Manickam.
He also added that for employers unsure of what their next move is, should contact the R&CA for advice and support.
‘If you don’t know, we can help you.’
The Restaurant & Catering Association are highly trained industry specialists with expertise in workplace relations. The R&CA also has a dedicated support service to members for things like wage enquiries and entitlements that are used by members across the industry.
To read more global news, click here.
