2 December 2014

Fair Work Ombudsman inspectors will visit more than 50 businesses in Hobart this week to assist employers to meet their obligations under workplace laws.

Inspectors will conduct face-to-face visits in the north-western suburbs to answer employer questions about pay and conditions and monitor compliance.

Inspectors will focus on a range of industries, including retail, hospitality and social services.

Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James says the objective is to improve awareness of workplace laws among Tasmanian employers.

However, Ms James says it is also important that the Fair Work Ombudsman ensures employees are receiving their minimum entitlements.

Inspectors will focus on minimum hourly rates, meal breaks, penalty rates for weekend, overtime and public holiday work and shift work loadings.

Where inspectors identify errors, their preference will be to assist employers to rectify the mistakes and put processes in place to ensure they are not repeated.

In instances where serious non-compliance is detected, inspectors will consider appropriate enforcement actions.

Ms James said key stakeholders had been enlisted to assist the Agency to promote the need for compliance and a “level playing field” for all employers.

These include the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Tasmanian Small Business Council, the Australian Hotels Association and United Voice.

Ms James said inspectors will talk to employers about the free tools, resources and assistance the Fair Work Ombudsman has available to help them understand and comply with their workplace responsibilities.

Online tools include PayCheck Plus to help employers and workers determine the correct pay rates, classifications and minimum entitlements for their industry.

“Small businesses often don’t have the benefit of in-house human resources and payroll staff, so we place a high priority on assisting them,” Ms James said.

Employers and employees seeking further information or advice are encouraged to visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice. A free interpreter service is also available on 13 14 50.

Small business employers calling the Fair Work Infoline can opt to be put through to the Small Business Helpline to receive priority service.

Follow Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James on Twitter @NatJamesFWO , the Fair Work Ombudsman @fairwork_gov_au or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/fairwork.gov.au .

Media inquiries:

Nicci de Ryk, Senior Media Adviser
Mobile: 0466 522 004
nicci.deryk@fwo.gov.au