4 December 2015

The Fair Work Ombudsman is urging workers who believe they may have been underpaid by labour hire contractors for work at Baiada poultry processing plants this year to lodge their claims before a December 31 deadline.

Under a compliance partnership with the Fair Work Ombudsman signed in October, Baiada agreed to rectify any underpayment of wages by its labour hire contractors from January 1 this year.

However, the agreement only applies to workers who lodge claims before the end of the year.

Baiada has set aside $500,000 to reimburse the workers, with any funds remaining to be distributed to various nominated charities.

Baiada agreed to make the back-payments and to continue to implement a range of changes as part of its commitment to work with the Fair Work Ombudsman to stamp out unlawful practices by its contractors at its NSW worksites.

For more information, see the media release: Baiada declares 'moral and ethical' responsibility to stamp out contractors' unlawful practices at its worksites

To a lodge a claim, workers should call the dedicated 1300 304 550 hotline or email Baiada@stopline.com.au established by Baiada under the terms of its Proactive Compliance Deed.

For more information or advice, workers can also contact the Fair Work Ombudsman through its website at www.fairwork.gov.au or by calling the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.

A free interpreter service for those from non-English speaking backgrounds 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 .

Sign up to receive the Fair Work Ombudsman’s media releases direct to your email inbox at www.fairwork.gov.au/mediareleases.

Media inquiries:

Ryan Pedler, Assistant Media Director
Mobile: 0411 430 902
ryan.pedler@fwo.gov.au