Security Contractor Faces Court For Allegedly Underpaying Workers

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9th February 2010, 10:00am - Views: 1482





People Feature Fair Work Ombudsman 1 image

People Feature Fair Work Ombudsman 2 image

Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94 





Media Release





  9 Feb 2010


Security contractor faces court for allegedly

underpaying workers $23,000


The Fair Work Ombudsman has launched a prosecution against a NSW security

contracting company and its director for allegedly underpaying two workers more

than $23,000.


Facing court is Essendene Security Pty Ltd, based in Nelson Bay, and the

company’s manager and sole director John Richard Ryan, of Mallabula.


Documents lodged in the Federal Magistrates Court in Sydney allege that the

company underpaid two security staff $10,864 and $9630 in 2007-2008.


The Fair Work Ombudsman says that when Essendene’s workplace agreements

failed the Fairness Test, the company failed to fully back-pay the workers.


One of the two was also allegedly underpaid a further $2775 in weekend and

overtime pay.   


While Essendene has reimbursed some money, it’s alleged back-payments of

more than $19,000 remain outstanding. 


Fair Work Ombudsman Executive Director Michael Campbell says the decision to

prosecute was made because of the significant amounts involved and the

employer’s failure to fully rectify the matter.


The maximum penalty per breach is $33,000 for Essendene and $6600 for Mr

Ryan.


The Agency is also seeking a Court Order for back-payment of the money

allegedly still owed. The case is listed for a directions hearing on February 19.


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

on 13 13 94 or visit www.fwo.gov.au For translations call 13 14 50.



Media inquiries: 


Craig Bildstien, Director Media & Stakeholder Relations. 0419 818 484.

craig.bildstien@fwo.gov.au


Ryan Pedler, Senior Adviser Media & Stakeholder Relations. (03) 9954

2561, 0434 365 924. ryan.pedler@fwo.gov.au







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