Fast-food outlets in Byron Bay and Lismore will be visited by inspectors this week, to check not the quality of their food but the treatment of their employees.
It’s part of a nationwide campaign by the Fair Work Ombudsman’s Office, which has received a number of complaints about primarily privately owned outlets underpaying their often-teenage staff.
‘Young workers can be vulnerable if they aren’t aware of their workplace rights or are reluctant to complain, so it’s important we are proactive about checking they are receiving their full lawful entitlements,’ said Fair Work ombudsman Natalie James.
Fair Work Inspectors will check employers are paying employees their minimum entitlements, including minimum hourly rates, penalty rates and overtime rates, and are complying with their record-keeping and pay slip obligations.
It’s part of a three-year campaign focusing on the hospitality sector.
The ombudsman previously offered ‘carrots’ to the industry including a menu of free resources to help outlets comply with workplace laws.
