Former operator of Melbourne computer business Geek Central faces court
The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against the former operator of a computer retail and repair business in Melbourne.
Facing court is Daniel Capozzi, a sole trader who owned and operated ‘Geek Central Australia’ in Maribyrnong, before the business closed.
The regulator investigated after receiving a request for assistance from a worker Mr Capozzi employed on a part time basis between 2015 and 2023.
A Fair Work Inspector issued a Compliance Notice to Mr Capozzi in December 2025 after forming a belief he had failed to pay the worker’s minimum wages for ordinary hours, annual and personal leave entitlements, payment in lieu of notice of termination, and public holiday-related pay.
The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges Mr Capozzi, without reasonable excuse, failed to comply with the Compliance Notice, which required him to calculate and back-pay the worker’s entitlements.
It is alleged the total amount Mr Capozzi was required to pay to comply with the Compliance Notice was $25,362. This amount was rectified after legal action was commenced.
The entitlements were allegedly owed under the Business Equipment Award 2010 and 2020 and the Fair Work Act’s National Employment Standards.
Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said the regulator would continue to enforce workplace laws and take action in court where lawful requests are not complied with.
“Where employers do not comply, we will take appropriate action to protect employees. A court can order penalties and require back payment of outstanding workplace entitlements,” Ms Booth said.
“It is a significant amount that we allege the worker was owed.
“Any employees with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact us for free advice and assistance.”
The Fair Work Ombudsman is seeking a penalty in court for the alleged failure to comply with the Compliance Notice. Mr Capozzi faces a penalty of up to $19,800.
A directions hearing is listed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Melbourne on 23 June 2026.
Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance. An interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.
In 2024-25, the FWO secured total court penalties of more than $870,000 for failures to comply with Compliance Notices.
Employees can also seek information from their employer or their union, if they are a union member.
Employers can seek information from their employer association if they are a member, and also use the FWO’s pay calculator and Small Business Showcase.
The FWO provides a free online course to help employers understand what a Compliance Notice is and how to respond if they get one. The Compliance Notice course, among a suite of free interactive courses on offer for employers, managers and employees, is available in our online learning centre.
