FWO audits recover $1.3m for underpaid workers

The FWO initiated the audit in 2018, after data consistently showed many businesses were failing the ‘basics’ of workplace law compliance, including paying staff their correct rates, providing proper payslips, and keeping proper employment records.

FWO found that nearly half of the businesses audited (583) failed to get these workplace law basics right. Of these non-compliant businesses, 70 per cent underpaid their workers, while 30 percent failed their recording keeping and payslip obligations.

Hospitality, namely fast food, restaurants and cafes, was the least compliant industry (61 per cent non-compliant) of all businesses audited by the FWO.

Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said the results were a wakeup call to employers that they need to prioritise workplace law compliance.

"Nearly three quarters of employers that breached the law said they weren’t aware of the rules, which is not an excuse. Businesses are failing the basic requirements of being a responsible employer if they are not carrying out adequate due diligence before hiring.

“The Fair Work Ombudsman has free resources on our website that assist businesses to comply with the law. Any employers with queries about pay and conditions and their lawful obligations to their employees should contact us for free advice,” Ms Parker said.

In response to the workplace law breaches, Fair Work Inspectors issued 24 on-the-spot fines totalling $32,980 in penalties, 457 contravention letter, 56 formal cautions, and 47 compliance notices.

Eight employers remain under investigation for serious non-compliance discovered during these audits.  

The FWO confirmed it is considering appropriate compliance and enforcement responses in these matters, which may include legal proceedings and large penalties.