Fair Ombudsman inspectors will visit Perth eateries this week to undertake compliance checks to ensure workers are receiving the correct entitlements.
A total of 50 businesses will be investigated across Belmont, Victoria Park and East Victoria Park, with inspectors speaking with business owners and employees.
Inspectors are on alert for breaches including inaccurate record-keeping, low flat rates, unpaid work, unpaid penalty rates, late payments and failure to provide pay slips.
The blitz has come about after the regulator received a number of anonymous reports as well as other tip-offs concerning potential underpayments.
Businesses have been selected based on indicators of non-compliance including reports as well as if they employ workers who are categorised as vulnerable such as visa holders and students.
“Inspectors in Perth are on the ground this week, and we will hold employers to account if they are not meeting their obligations, including by taking enforcement action where appropriate,” says Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker.
“These inspections are part of a national food precincts program where we’ve often found a low cost of dining comes at the expense of workers’ lawful entitlements.
“Visa holder workers and students can be especially at risk of exploitation as they’re often unfamiliar with Australian workplace laws or reluctant to ask questions about their pay or other concerns with their employer.”