Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94
Media Release
18 Dec 2009
Whyalla company back-pays four workers $10k
The Fair Work Ombudsman has recovered $10,000 in back-pay for four casual workers at
a Whyalla accommodation house.
The four were engaged in housekeeping and administration duties.
Fair Work inspectors discovered the employees had been underpaid when the business was
randomly audited.
Inspectors found the four had been underpaid the minimum hourly rate as a result of the
business not being aware of its obligations.
After inspectors explained the relevant award pay scales, the operator promptly back-paid
all outstanding wages.
The largest back-payment to an individual worker was $5950.
Fair Work Ombudsman South Australian Director Carey Trundle says that because the
employer fully co-operated and voluntarily rectified the matter there would be no further
action.
“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,”
she said.
“However, employers must be aware that it is their responsibility to ensure they pay staff
correctly.”
Ms Trundle 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 new workplace law landscape provides a comprehensive safety net of minimum
employment conditions that underpin the whole system,” she said.
“The Fair Work Ombudsman has a range of user-friendly resources that can help
employers and workers understand and comply with workplace laws.”
Employers or employees seeking advice or assistance should contact the Fair Work Infoline
The Fair Work Ombudsman promotes harmonious, productive and co-operative
workplaces. It also monitors compliance and investigates breaches of national workplace
laws.
NOTE: We are unable to identify the employer involved in this case
Media:
Craig Bildstien, Director of Media & Stakeholder Relations, 0419 818 484
Ryan Pedler, 0434 365 924.
NEWS 
