First published on Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Last updated on Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Whether it’s an underpayment claim or an unfair dismissal claim, with the many cases that are reported by Fair Work each week it is important that your company ensures it is fully compliant with Australian employment laws to avoid falling afoul and dealing with potential fines.
Below, we’ve listed two examples of recent investigations from the Fair Work Ombudsman regarding alleged underpayment cases.
IGA supermarket in Regional NSW involved in alleged underpayment case
According to a recent media release by Fair Work, Kinsfolk Retail Pty Ltd a franchisee operating an IGA supermarket in Narrandera NSW has had legal action taken against them by the Fair Work Ombudsman for allegedly underpaying a visa holder more than $93,000 while allegedly falsifying records to conceal their actions. After a tip-off from the worker, an investigation also showed that Kinsfolk Retail allegedly underpaid entitlements such as annual leave and minimum break entitlements. While Kinsfolk retail has rectified the alleged underpayments, a directions hearing for the case will be held on the 2nd of October 2026.
Labour-hire involved in allegedly underpaying fruit pickers
A labour-hire operator based in NSW’s Mid-North Coast region has had legal action commenced against them by the Fair Work Ombudsman for allegedly underpaying two fruit pickers on working holiday visas up to $6,985. According to the media release from Fair Work, they were allegedly paid less than the requirements under the Horticulture Award 2020, as they each worked 181.56 hours in fruit picking while earning under the minimum wage according to their award. A directions hearing regarding the case will be held this week on the 7th of August 2026.
To avoid becoming an example like the companies listed above, ensuring that your employees have all been paid correctly according to their awards is essential in avoiding getting involved in a Fair Work case. To assist business owners with compliance we offer both a 24/7 employment relations line and our Fair Work Act Navigator, which reviews your employee data to flag missing or incomplete information, like start dates, pay rates, and award classifications. For more information, book a demo with us today!
