Sydney cleaners face scrutiny
June 1st, 2009
Workplace inspectors are planning a series of surprise night-time visits to commercial buildings in the heart of Sydney to ensure cleaners are being properly paid.
The Federal Workplace Ombudsman will conduct the random audits during June/July following a rise in complaints from cleaners.
Workplace Ombudsman NSW Director Ross Drysdale says his office has received intelligence which suggests the industry warrants closer attention.
The Australian Cleaners’ Association, the Liquor, Hospitality and Msicellaneous Union and the Building Service Contractors’ Association have been advised and support the targeted campaign.
Mr Drysdale says many cleaners working at night are overseas students who may not be aware of their workplace rights and who may be reluctant to speak out if they are being exploited.
A dedicated team of eight inspectors will make after-hours inspections at up to 30 commercial buildings in the Sydney and North Sydney CBD areas over the audit period.
“We will be checking that employers are paying the correct hourly rates of pay, including weekend penalties, shift penalties, public holiday loadings and allowances,” Mr Drysdale said.
“At the same time, we want to monitor compliance with record-keeping requirements and analyse any level of sham contracting that may exist in this industry.”
Mr Drysdale said inspectors would provide employers, contractors and sub-contractors with appropriate information about minimum wages and entitlements for cleaners.
“By conducting a small campaign such as this, we will be able to establish whether there are significant issues within this industry that need to be addressed,” he said.
“If there are, then consideration will be given to conducting a more wide-ranging campaign in the near future.”
A report on the outcome will be prepared by September.
www.wo.gov.au Wednesday 27th May 2009