Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94
Media Release
20 Oct 2009
Launceston 8 share $60,000 in back-pay
Eight Launceston workers have been reimbursed almost $60,000 after
complaining to the Fair Work Ombudsman about being underpaid.
All of the part-time employees work for the one company.
The back-payments range between $1500 for one employee up to $19,000 for
another.
After investigating the workers’ complaints, the Fair Work Ombudsman found
they had been underpaid penalty rates, overtime, shift allowances and annual
leave loading.
Initially, the employer maintained it had only short-changed the staff about
$30,000 – but the Fair Work Ombudsman calculated the figure at $58,500.
In a separate case, two casual farm hands who worked at an orchard outside
Launceston have been reimbursed $2200 after they also complained about being
underpaid.
The two migrant 457 Visa-holders had been underpaid minimum piece rates by a
Tasmanian labour firm which contracted them to the property.
They no longer work for the employer and one has returned overseas.
Fair Work Ombudsman Tasmanian Director Glenn Jordan says both mistakes were
inadvertent and the employers co-operated to rectify the problems.
“In these cases, as with most accidental breaches, we will not be prosecuting the
employers for these errors,” he said.
Mr Jordan said any employer unsure about what to pay staff should contact the
Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for up-to-date information on wage rates.
Likewise, he urged any employees concerned they may not be receiving their
proper entitlements to seek advice and assistance.
“We take very seriously our role of ensuring workers and employers alike
understand their respective workplace rights and obligations,” Mr Jordan added.
Information – including Best Practice Guides on a range of subjects aimed at
assisting employers create better workplaces – are available at www.fwo.gov.au
The Fair Work Ombudsman promotes harmonious, productive and co-operative
workplaces.
Media inquiries: Craig Bildstien, 0419 818 484; Ryan Pedler, 0434 365 924
NEWS 
