Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94
Media Release
21 Oct 2009
$14,000 back-pay for two Mount Gambier
workers after watchdog intervenes
Two Mount Gambier workers have been reimbursed more than $14,000 after
investigations by the Fair Work Ombudsman found they were underpaid.
Fair Work inspectors have recovered $6500 for a former employee of a local car
dealership who was being paid a flat rate of $14 an hour – less than the minimum
hourly rate.
And in a second case, inspectors have recouped $7500 for a truck driver who was
underpaid for overtime worked, even though he was paid above the minimum
hourly rate.
Both cases were investigated after the workers complained to the Fair Work
Ombudsman.
South Australian Director Carey Trundle says the examples highlight the
importance of employers and employees alike contacting the Fair Work Infoline to
ensure they have the most up-to-date information on wages rates and conditions.
The Infoline - 13 13 94 – is open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday.
A range of information to assist employers, including a suite of Best Practice
Guides aimed at creating better workplaces, is also available on the website at
Ms Trundle says educating and assisting workers and employers about their
respective rights and obligations is a key part of the Fair Work Ombudsman’s
role.
The Agency has offices in Adelaide, Mount Gambier and Port Augusta and last
financial year recovered more than $2 million for 1015 workers in South Australia
who had been underpaid.
The Fair Work Ombudsman promotes harmonious, productive and co-operative
workplaces. It also monitors compliance with and investigates breaches of
national workplace laws.
Media inquiries:
Craig Bildstien, Director Media & Stakeholder Relations 0419 818 484 Email:
craig.bildstien@fwo.gov.au
Ryan Pedler: Mob: 0434 365 924; Email: ryan.pedler@fwo.gov.au
NEWS 
