Tasmanian carrier backpays yard hand $13,800 after workplace investigation
November 27, 2009
A Fair Work Ombudsman investigation has forced a Tasmanian transport operator to reimburse a former yard hand $13,800 for underpaying him.
The workplace watchdog says the company neglected to pay the worker the correct wages, accrued annual leave and long service leave entitlements when he left the company.
The Ombudsman declined to name the company involved, saying litigation was not pursued after it worked with the company to help it voluntarily rectify the issue.
Nicholas Wilson from the Ombudsman says most underpayments are the result of a lack of understanding by employers of their legal obligations, including applicable Awards and pay scales.
He took the opportunity to use the case as a warning to all transport companies.
“Employers need to be aware they can face fines of up to $33,000 per breach if the matter goes to court,” Wilson says.