28 October 2014

Workers in Sydney’s Northern and North-Western suburbs have been back-paid more than $47,000 after recent inquiries by the Fair Work Ombudsman.

In Mosman, a real estate agent who sold a million-dollar property was back-paid $15,200 after her employer failed to pay commission on the sale.

The agent was employed on a commission-only basis and approached the Fair Work Ombudsman after it was not paid on termination of her employment.

Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James says employers must ensure they pay employees their full, lawful entitlements when an employment relationship ends.

“Paying workers correctly upon termination of employment is just as important as ensuring they receive their correct wages and conditions throughout their employment,” she said.

Other recent recoveries include:

• $7800 for two employees at a Carlingford business not paid for all hours worked during a three-month period last year,
• $6300 for a help-desk operator at a Thornleigh IT firm not paid outstanding wages and annual leave entitlements upon termination of employment last year,
• $6200 for a florist in North Sydney underpaid her minimum hourly rate and casual loading entitlements over a 12-month period,
• $5900 for a shop assistant at a Pymble retail business not paid for all hours worked during various periods in 2012-2013, and
• $5900 for a young labourer at Stanhope Gardens underpaid his minimum hourly rate and annual leave entitlements on termination of employment last year.

Ms James says that after Fair Work inspectors contacted the businesses and explained their obligations, the employees were reimbursed all money owed.

"Our focus is on educating employers about their obligations and helping them to put processes in place to ensure that any errors we find don't occur again," she said.

Ms James says businesses looking for information should consult the range of tools and resources available on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website at www.fairwork.gov.au.  

Employers and employees seeking further assistance can also contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94. A free interpreter service is available by calling 13 14 50.

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:

Tom McPherson, Media Adviser
Mobile: 0439 835 855
tom.mcpherson@fwo.gov.au