Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said continuing to boost compliance among agriculture sector employers remained a priority for the agency.
“We are strategically targeting employers in 15 hot spot regions across two years where we have identified high risks of non-compliance,” Ms Parker said.
“This sector engages many vulnerable workers, such as migrants, who may be unaware of their rights or unwilling to speak up.
“We expect employers to meet their legal obligations to all their employees, including the minimum wage guarantee now in effect in the Horticulture Award.
“Fair Work Inspectors will continue their site inspections this year and throughout 2023. Any employers who need assistance should contact the FWO for free advice and resources.”
In north-west Victoria last month, the regulator investigated more than 40 businesses in the Sunraysia region across various locations including Mildura, Irymple, Colignan, Red Cliffs and Robinvale.
Inspectors identified potential issues including the use of group piece rates; lack of details on payslips and a lack of record-keeping; employees not being aware who their employer is; lack of clarity on superannuation; and overtime and casual loadings not being paid.
“Record-keeping is the bedrock of compliance and it is concerning that inspectors have needed to issue nearly $20,000 in infringement notices for payslip and record-keeping breaches,” Ms Parker said.
“We expect employers to get this right.”
The Fair Work Ombudsman also has responsibility to enforce wages and entitlements under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme, which this year combined what were the Pacific Labour Scheme and Seasonal Worker Program.
Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 131 394 for free advice and assistance about their rights and obligations in the workplace. A free interpreter service is available on 131 450.
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