Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94
Media Release
16 Dec 2009
Fair Work Ombudsman recoups $115,000 for
Melbourne training college staff
The Fair Work Ombudsman has recovered $115,000 for five workers at a private
training college in Melbourne.
The workers lodged complaints earlier this year after they finished working for the
college and did not receive wages, pay in lieu of notice or accrued annual leave
entitlements.
In some cases, the college had been unlawfully withholding the entitlements
pending the resolution of disputes with the workers, who held a variety of
teaching and administrative positions.
After Fair Work inspectors contacted the college and explained its obligations
under workplace laws, the workers were promptly back-paid.
Fair Work Ombudsman Executive Director Michael Campbell says that as the
college fully co-operated with inspectors and voluntarily rectified the
underpayments immediately, no further action will be taken.
“We have a flexible, fair approach and our preference is always to work with
employers to educate them and help them voluntarily rectify any non-compliance
issues we identify,” he said.
“However, employers must be aware that it is their responsibility to ensure they
pay staff correctly.”
Mr Campbell says the Fair Work Ombudsman can help employers and workers to
understand their rights and obligations under new National Employment
Standards and Modern Awards, which take effect on January 1, 2010.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has a range of user-friendly resources that can help
employers and workers better understand and comply with workplace laws.
Employers or employees seeking advice or assistance should contact the Fair
50.
The Fair Work Ombudsman promotes harmonious, productive and co-operative
workplaces. It also monitors compliance and investigates breaches of national
workplace laws.
Media inquries:
Craig Bildstien, Director, Media & Stakeholder Relations, 0419 818 484.
Ryan Pedler, Senior Adviser, 0434 365 924.
NEWS 
