In light of recent underpayment cases, we’re reposting our article as new laws confirm employers can no longer claim ignorance of record?keeping and pay obligations.
Fair Work Ombudsman secured back payments, including $25,220 for a Lake Macquarie worker and $34,000 for 23 in the Goulburn Valley.
FWO interventions follow the Fair Work Amendment (Protecting Vulnerable Workers) Act, effective from 14 September 2017. The key elements of this new Act are:
- The granting of greater investigatory powers to the FWO
- The introduction of new penalties for providing Fair Work Inspectors with false or misleading information
- Doubling of penalties associated with breaches of record keeping and pay slip obligations
- A new ‘serious contraventions’ category penalises systemic law-breaking, with fines up to $126,000 for individuals and $630,000 for corporations.
- From 28 October 2017, franchisors and holding companies are liable if franchises or subsidiaries breach workplace laws
With new laws in place, Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James warned employers that ignorance of pay and record?keeping obligations is no longer acceptable, stressing responsibility and enforcement through litigation and heavy penalties for repeated breaches.
For assistance in ensuring that your business is compliant with current pay and recording keeping requirements under the Fair Work Act 2009 please contact ABILITY GROUP.
Source: WorkplaceInfo
Title: Goulburn Valley workers back – paid $34K
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