A Queensland inquiry into wage theft was told the practice was “alarmingly common” and would “never be stopped”, with horticulture and hospitality industries highlighted as major culprits.
The National Retail Association CEO, Dominique Lamb, said the biggest driver of the practice was employers misunderstanding the award system, and applying the wrong award.
A previous inquiry by the Fair Work Ombudsman found 60% of Brisbane franchisees were not compliant with the Fair Work Act.