The owner of two health clubs has been required to pay compensation to a casual fitness instructor who was stood down after questioning his entitlements.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has ruled that the stand-down was unlawful and that the employee be reimbursed $2179 for lost wages. The worker suffered financial difficulties after losing his income and was forced to vacate his rental accommodation. Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James says employees cannot be stood down for asking about their wages and conditions.
It is essential to be very careful when dealing with employees who make claims about their wages and entitlements.
There are protections under the Fair Work act, so speak to us at HR Central if you have any doubt about how to proceed.