The Truthful Work Ombudsman has commenced authorized motion in opposition to sole dealer Muntazir Hussain who operates Evening Spark Restaurant in Brunswick East.
It’s alleged that Mr Hussain underpaid minimal wages, penalty charges for working weekends and evenings, and didn’t pay accrued however untaken annual depart entitlements on the finish of employment for one full-time employee.
The employee was a Pakistani nationwide on a bridging visa who Mr Hussain employed as a full-time cook dinner on the restaurant from August to September 2022.
The employee requested help from Truthful Work which noticed an inspector type the assumption the employee was owed entitlements beneath the Restaurant Trade Award 2020 and the Truthful Work Act’s Nationwide Employment Requirements.
Mr Hussain was issued a Compliance Discover in January 2023, which The Truthful Work Ombudsman alleges he, with out cheap excuse, did not adjust to.
The Truthful Work Ombudsman is now taking Mr Hussain to courtroom the place he’ll face a penalty of as much as $6,660 for failing to conform, together with the act of rectifying the underpayment plus curiosity and superannuation.
Truthful Work Ombudsman Anna Sales space encourages staff who imagine which may be susceptible to being underpaid to contact Truthful Work for assist.
“Employers additionally must be conscious that taking motion to guard staff resembling visa holders who can typically be extra weak and enhancing compliance within the quick meals, restaurant and café sector are amongst our high priorities,” says Ms Sales space.
“Any workers with considerations about their pay or entitlements ought to contact the Truthful Work Ombudsman free of charge help.”
