Trolley collecting operator penalised
The Fair Work Ombudsman has secured a $7560 penalty in court against the operator of a trolley collecting business in regional NSW for failing to comply with a Fair Work Commission order.
The Federal Circuit and Family Court has imposed the penalty against Mahmoud Hasan Abulamoun, who operated a trolley collection business at the Green Hills East Maitland Shopping Centre.
The penalty was imposed in response to Mr Abulamoun breaching the Fair Work Act by failing to comply with the Fair Work Commission order that required him to pay compensation to a worker he had unfairly dismissed.
In addition to the penalty, the court has ordered Mr Abulamoun to pay the outstanding compensation to the worker, plus interest.
Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said business operators who do not prioritise compliance with workplace laws need to be aware they can face court-imposed penalties on top of having to back-pay workers.
“It is fundamental for the integrity of the workplace relations system that orders made by the Fair Work Commission are complied with, and we will take legal action to hold employers accountable and ensure employees receive compensation,” Ms Parker said.
“Any employees with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact us for free advice and assistance,” Ms Parker said.
In August 2020, the Fair Work Commission found that in May 2020, Mr Abulamoun unfairly dismissed a trolley collector he had employed since September 2018.
The Fair Work Commission ordered Mr Abulamoun to pay the worker $2817.39 compensation. Mr Abulamoun subsequently appealed unsuccessfully.
The employee lodged a request for assistance with the Fair Work Ombudsman after the company failed to pay the compensation.
The FWO commenced an investigation and made several attempts to secure voluntary compliance before commencing legal action.
Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance about their rights and obligations in the workplace. A free interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.
