Fair Work Wage Audits are essential for Australian businesses to remain compliant with workplace laws, avoid costly penalties, and protect their reputation. ABILITY GROUP specialises in guiding employers through these audits, ensuring accurate wage practices and safeguarding against Fair Work Ombudsman enforcement actions.
Fair Work Wage Audits: Why They Matter
Reputation Management – Publicised breaches can damage brand trust, especially when vulnerable workers (e.g., visa holders or casual employees) are exploited
Legal Compliance -The Fair Work Ombudsman regularly conducts audits to identify underpayment of wages, incorrect record keeping, and breaches of workplace laws
Financial Risk -Businesses found non-compliant face significant penalties. For example, recent audits recovered over $620,000 in unpaid wages across Victoria, with fines reaching up to $10,800 per employer
Common Issues Found in Wage Audits
- Underpayment of workers due to incorrect award interpretation
- Failure to keep accurate wage and time records
- Exploitation of vulnerable employees, including international workers on temporary visas
- Non-compliance across industries, from manufacturing to hospitality, with audits recovering over $580,000 in NSW, Victoria, and Queensland
How ABILITY GROUP Supports Employers
- Pre-Audit Reviews: Identifying risks before the FWO investigates
- Payroll Compliance Checks: Ensuring wages align with awards and enterprise agreements
- Record-Keeping Systems: Implementing best practices for time and wage documentation
- Training & Advisory: Educating HR teams and managers on Fair Work obligations
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular compliance audits to prevent future breaches
Contact ABILITY GROUP today to discuss your HR needs.
For previous Articles on Fair Work Wage Audits click here.
Source: FairWork NSW
Title: FairWork Wage Audits
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