Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94
Media Release
21 Jan 2010
Employer to face court for allegedly threatening
worker who queried pay
The Fair Work Ombudsman is prosecuting a Brisbane physiotherapy clinic for
allegedly threatening to dismiss an employee who queried her pay.
Facing court is Maleha Newaz Pty Ltd, which trades as Physio Plus Physiotherapy
and Sports Clinic in Carindale. The company’s sole director is Maleha Newaz.
The Agency is also prosecuting Ms Newaz’ husband Saba Ahammad, who is
Secretary of Maleha Newaz Pty Ltd and is involved in running the clinic.
Documents lodged in the Federal Magistrates Court in Brisbane allege that in late
2008, a casual receptionist at the clinic obtained information from authorities
which suggested she was being paid below what she was entitled to.
The receptionist forwarded this information to her employer and asked that her
wages be re-evaluated.
It is alleged that on November 6, 2008 Mr Ahammad sent the receptionist an
email stating that her wages would not be increased and threatening to dismiss
her if she pursued the matter with authorities to secure back-pay.
The receptionist resigned in early 2009 and then lodged an underpayment
complaint with the Fair Work Ombudsman. Inspectors investigated and
negotiated for Maleha Newaz Pty Ltd to voluntarily back-pay her $7090.
Fair Work Ombudsman Executive Director Michael Campbell says the Agency has
launched legal action because the circumstances of the alleged threat to dismiss
the receptionist constitute a serious breach of workplace law.
Maleha Newaz Pty Ltd and Mr Ahammad were allegedly each involved in
committing one breach. The maximum penalty per breach is $33,000 for the
company and $6600 for Mr Ahammad.
The Fair Work Ombudsman is also seeking a Court Order for compensation of
$5482 for the receptionist for lost wages following her resignation. The case is
listed for a directions hearing on February 10.
The Fair Work Ombudsman promotes harmonious, productive and co-operative
workplaces. It also monitors compliance and investigates breaches of national
workplace laws.
Employers or employees seeking assistance should contact the Fair Work Infoline
Media: Craig Bildstien, 0419 818 484. craig.bildstien@fwo.gov.au
Ryan Pedler, (03) 9954 2561, 0434 365 924. ryan.pedler@fwo.gov.au
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