Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94
Media Release
7 Dec 2009
Esperance businesses targeted for audit
A number of Esperance businesses will be asked to open their books to scrutiny
by the Fair Work Ombudsman.
The regulator today announced plans to randomly check 15 local employers
before Christmas.
Fair Work inspectors have earmarked the hospitality, retail, engineering and
mining industries.
Audits will focus on employees’ wages and conditions to ensure employers are
complying with their legal obligations to staff.
Fair Work Ombudsman WA Director Leigh Quealy says inspectors will scrutinise
employment records over the next few weeks.
“In cases where records are not up to scratch or indicate workers are being
underpaid, inspectors may launch a wider investigation,” he said.
Mr Quealy says inspectors will provide businesses with assistance and information
to help them voluntarily rectify any issues.
“In cases where an employer refuses to co-operate or where we suspect serious,
deliberate or continued breaches of national workplace law, we may choose to
launch court proceedings,” he said.
Mr Quealy says the Fair Work Ombudsman can help employers to understand
their current obligations – as well as those under new National Employment
Standards and Modern Awards which come into effect from January 1, 2010.
The Esperance campaign aims to raise awareness of the Fair Work Ombudsman’s
role and to educate employees and employers alike about their respective
workplace rights and obligations.
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 inquiries:
Craig Bildstien, 0419 818 484. craig.bildstien@fwo.gov.au
Ryan Pedler, (03) 9954 2561, 0434 365 924. ryan.pedler@fwo.gov.au
NEWS 
