4 July 2016

The Fair Work Ombudsman today released the findings of a recent campaign in the ACT.

Spot checks of 76 local businesses found:

• 43 (57 per cent) were compliant with all their workplace responsibilities,
• 57(75 per cent) were paying their employees correctly, and
• 58 (76 per cent) were compliant with their record-keeping and pay-slip obligations.

Nineteen businesses were asked to back-pay a total of $16,385 to 24 of their employees who had been short-changed.

One employer, the operator of a Nando’s restaurant, signed an Enforceable Undertaking with the Fair Work Ombudsman after it was revealed the business had underpaid its workers more than $27,000.

Media release: Nando's restaurant signs workplace pact after short-changing young workers more than $27,000

Fair Work inspectors issued a Letter of Caution to another business, placing it on notice that further breaches of workplace laws could result in enforcement action.

Businesses were randomly selected throughout the northern suburbs, including Macquarie, Gungahlin, Dickson and Braddon.

Inspectors focused on a range of industries, including retail, hairdressing and accommodation and food services.  

Key stakeholders were advised, including the Canberra Business Chamber, North Canberra Community Council, Belconnen Community Council and Gungahlin Community Council.

Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James says employers found to be non-complaint will be re-audited as part of the Agency’s ongoing National Compliance Monitoring Campaign.    

Fair Work inspectors informed employers about the range of free tools and resources available to them on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website at www.fairwork.gov.au.

Employers and employees seeking assistance can also contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.

A free interpreter service is available by calling 13 14 50.

Small businesses can opt to be put through to a priority service for assistance.

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.

Download

• Northern ACT Regional Campaign Report 

Media inquiries:

Bryan Littlely, Assistant Director, Media
Mobile: 0447 692 007
bryan.littlely@fwo.gov.au