The Federal Circuit Court found Michael Parkes and his wife Rowena Sioco Parkes in breach of workplace laws, which included underpaying two Filipino employees more than $134,000.
The couple recruited two Filipino couples through the 457 skilled work visas. All four employees were working full-time, but were forced into a 'two-for-one' wage deal wherein only the females were being paid in full and the males were given almost zero wages.
The four Filipinos' responsibilities included cleaning, doing the laundry, waiting on tables, gardening, cooking, maintenance and working in reception.
According to Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker: “Enforcing compliance with workplace laws in the hospitality sector and taking action to protect vulnerable workers continue to be priorities for the Fair Work Ombudsman.”
The Parkes', who own and operate NSW Motel Management Services Pty Ltd, are being made to pay $280,000 in penalties. This included a $10,000 penalty that Rowena Sioco Parkes is required to pay due to breaching laws related to adverse action and monetising annual leave.
