Wildernis Cafe and Bar facing legal action after allegedly underpaying wages

A popular Gold Coast eatery is facing legal action after they allegedly underpaid an employee almost $8000.

A POPULAR eatery is ­facing legal action for ­allegedly underpaying an employee almost $8000.

The Fair Work Ombudsman accused Wildernis Cafe and Bar in Palm Beach of underpaying a cook between May 2019 and April 2020.

The Fair Work Inspector issued a compliance notice to the cafe in February last year after the worker was allegedly not paid all entitlements under the Restaurant Industry Award.

The inspector formed the belief that the worker was not paid casual minimum wage and weekend casualty rates.

When the cook moved to full-time they were underpaid their accrued but unused annual leave on termination, the inspector believed.

The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges that Wildernis Cafe and Bar did not comply with the notice.

In June 2021, the cafe ­allegedly agreed to pay the former employee the $7958.10 they were owed.

The ombudsman alleges that the worker was paid only $1330.85.

Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) Sandra Parker said the regulator, when employers were not complying, would take appropriate action to protect employees. “Any employees with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free assistance.”

The FWO is seeking a penalty against Wildernis Pty Ltd. The company faces a maximum penalty of $33,300. They also want Wildernis to pay back their employee. A hearing is listed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Brisbane on May 10.

Follow @leae