Better protection for workers as new Fair Work law passes Parliament

The Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James has welcomed the passing of new laws that will significantly enhance its capacity to take action in cases of exploitation of vulnerable workers.

Perth curry house operator faces Court over alleged unlawful cash-back exploitation

A former Perth restaurant operator is facing Court for allegedly requiring a Bangladeshi worker to repay thousands of dollars of his wages - and then dismissing him because he lodged a workers’ compensation claim after injuring his back at work.

Maximum penalty and CDPP referral for labour-hire operator’s “appalling” treatment of visa holder

A Melbourne labour-hire operator who paid an apprentice overseas mechanic nothing for almost three months work has been hit with maximum penalties and referred to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.

Renewed pact reaffirms joint commitment to improving workplace compliance

Joint efforts by the Fair Work Ombudsman and Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) to improve compliance with federal workplace laws relating to apprentices and trainees will continue under a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Dodgy labour practices in Lockyer Valley targeted in multi-agency operation

The Fair Work Ombudsman has joined forces with Queensland Workplace Health and Safety and the Queensland police to lead a multi-agency compliance operation targeting worker exploitation in the Lockyer Valley.

$37,000 pay day for Melbourne workers

The Fair Work Ombudsman has assisted two workers in suburbs north of Melbourne to recover more than $37,000 in unpaid wages and entitlements after they contacted the agency for assistance.

Melbourne entertainment hot spots targeted in Fair Work blitz

More than 50 restaurants, bars and cafes in some of Melbourne’s most popular entertainment precincts have received surprise visits from the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Franchisee from popular Perth restaurant chain faces Court

The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced another legal action relating to a franchisee of the Han’s Café chain in Perth, alleging staff at an outlet in the city’s south-east were underpaid more than $67,000.

Gold Coast workers back-paid $50,000

Three workers in Queensland’s Gold Coast region have been back-paid more than $50,000 in owed wages and entitlements after seeking assistance from the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Meatball and Wine Bar faces court for allegedly underpaying 26 workers, including visa holders

A Melbourne restaurateur will face court after his company allegedly underpaid 26 workers including visa holders across three of his restaurants, despite having received professional advice on its wage obligations.