$54k Penalty For Underpaying Melbourne Delivery Driver

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13th November 2009, 11:00am - Views: 1016





People Feature Fair Work Ombudsman 1 image

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Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94 





Media Release





    13 Nov 2009


$54,000 penalty for Melbourne company which

underpaid delivery driver


The operators of a Melbourne food company have been fined a total of $54,000 for

underpaying a delivery truck driver more than $32,000.


The penalties are the result of a prosecution by the Fair Work Ombudsman in the

Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.


Magistrate Franz Holzer imposed a fine of $37,000 against Olara Pty Ltd and $2000 against

Exofun Pty Ltd.


A director of both companies, Harry Friedman, of North Caulfield, was also fined $15,000

for his involvement.


The two companies were involved in a Moorabbin business - Exclusive Food Houses -

importing and distributing specialist foods.   


Olara admitted underpaying the driver a total of $30,462 when it employed him between

2003 and 2008.


The driver was paid a flat rate of $11.17 when he should have been paid between $12.63

and $15.03 an hour.


Exofun admitted underpaying the driver a total of $1798 when it employed him between

June and October 2008.


Similarly, it paid him a flat rate of $11.25 when he should have received $15.60.


The companies back-paid the driver the money owed after being contacted by inspectors

investigating the matter.


Fair Work Ombudsman Victorian Director Paul Werner says the case serves as a warning to

companies and individuals to ensure they are meeting their lawful obligations to staff.


“We take significant underpayments of low-paid workers particularly seriously and so to do

the courts,” Mr Werner said.


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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