Inspectors from the Office of the Australian Building and Construction Commissioner (ABCC) will visit building sites in the Pilbara region from 20 to 24 February to assess compliance with federal workplace laws.
ABC Commissioner Leigh Johns encouraged local construction businesses to use this opportunity to obtain free, face-to-face advice on their workplace obligations while the inspectors are in town.
“Employers in the region’s construction industry who are not already scheduled to meet with the ABCC can give us a call on 1800 003 338 to arrange a free visit which will help them to ensure their job site is fair and productive,” he said.
“ABCC inspectors will check the books on a number of building sites around Karratha, Barrow Island and Onslow to ensure employees are being paid correctly.
“They will also provide guidance on workplace laws, correct record keeping, dispute resolution procedures, and Occupational Health and Safety management plans.”
ABC Commissioner Johns said the Pilbara visit would also be beneficial for employees.
“The ABCC also has a role to ensure employees are being paid the correct wages and entitlements,” he said.
“I am determined to ensure that all building and construction workers receive a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.
“If employees think they are not receiving the entitlements they deserve, they should speak with an ABCC inspector while they are in the area. We can arrange private meetings.”
During 2011, the ABCC recovered a total of $92,800 for employees in Western Australia.
“Unintentional underpayments might occur from time to time, but it is important to rectify the underpayment as soon as possible. No company wants to face hefty back-payments, especially not smaller employers in the building and construction industry,” ABC Commissioner Johns commented.
Members of the building and construction industry seeking advice on their workplace rights and obligations should call the ABCC Hotline on 1800 003 338 or visit www.abcc.gov.au.