Workplace Rights Ombudsman
Fruit and vegetable harvesting industry report
– Bundaberg area - 2007
This report outlines the findings of Queensland Workplace Rights Ombudsman’s investigation into the Bundaberg district fruit and vegetable growing industry; most notably non-payment of superannuation contributions on behalf of backpacker employees. The investigation also found some underpayment of wages, commonly related to the inappropriate use of piecework rates.
Investigators found that backpacker hostels play an integral role in the local industry, facilitating the provision of workers to employers and in many cases the distribution of wages to workers. Outcomes of the investigation include: referral of non-compliance issues to relevant authorities, development of information sheets and website material for employers and employees on their obligations, and investigations into whether hostels are acting as ‘private employment agents’.
The report includes:
- Background
- Objectives
- Ombudsman’s functions and powers
- Investigation and consultation
- Summary of findings
- Findings and issues
- Piecework Rates
- Awards and industrial instruments
- Superannuation
- Records
- Methods of paying wages
- Hostels acting as Private Employment Agents
- Sub-contracting arrangements including ‘sham’ contracting
- Competitive fairness
- Actions for the Queensland Workplace Rights Office
- Recommendations
Last updated 24 April 2008
