The Fair Work Ombudsman has pursued legal action against three bubble tea outlets in the Adelaide CBD.
Yuxuan Group Pty Ltd, operators of Fun Tea, face court for underpaying 20 employees a total of $186,895.
Fair Work inspectors carried out the investigation after public allegations were made regarding compliance issues.
Employees were paid a flate rate of $10 to $15 per hour which did not meet entitlements under the Fast Food Award. In addition, meal breaks and minimum engagement requirements were not provided.
Several of the workers were visa holders and international students, with four under the age of 21.
Director Yang Su is believed to be involved in record-keeping and pay slip breaches and will appear in court.
The company faces penalties of up to $63,000 to $66,000, with Su facing penalties between $12,600 to $13,320.
The Ombudsman is seeking a court order that requires the company back-pay all 20 employees in full.
A directions hearing will proceed on 9 November 2021.
Image credit: Adelaide Dining