Together with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Fair Work Ombudsman will audit 50 businesses in Brisbane as part of a new campaign.
On May 30 and 31, businesses in the Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley, South Brisbane and West End will be inspected, with auditors paying special attention to minimum hourly rates, penalty rates, allowances and loadings and meal breaks, as well as record keeping and payslip obligations.
ASIC analysts will conduct site visits of incorporated entities where directors are present, with the audits co-ordinated in order to minimise the impact on small businesses, which would otherwise face separate visits from the two agencies.
The campaign is focusing on employers across various sectors, including retail, hospitality, fast food and real estate and businesses have been notified of the visits in advance.
Businesses will be randomly selected but there will be a focus on businesses with first-time company directors, to ensure they understand their lawful obligations and develop good compliance habits from an early stage.
ASIC commissioner Greg Tanzer said “We recognise that in today's economic environment, some small businesses may feel challenged simply keeping track of their obligations, and that's why we seek to provide assistance in ensuring they can keep up to date and compliant without undue impact on the business.”