URGENT UPDATE: The Fair Work Ombudsman has just announced a significant penalty of $15,984 against former United Petroleum outlet operator Navaneeth Gogikar, following serious violations of workplace laws. The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed this penalty after Mr. Gogikar submitted falsified records during an investigation, raising urgent concerns about employer accountability and worker rights.
Mr. Gogikar, who operated a United Petroleum outlet in Sunnybank Hills, Brisbane, is accused of breaching the Fair Work Act by knowingly providing false pay slips for a young Indian international student he employed. The misrepresentation included incorrect rates of pay and net amounts, undermining the integrity of the wage system and putting vulnerable workers at risk.
This investigation, initiated by the Fair Work Ombudsman, revealed that Mr. Gogikar failed to maintain proper records for not just the student but also two other young Indian workers, all visa holders aged between 23 and 24, employed as console operators from 2019 to 2021. The inadequate record-keeping obstructed the Fair Work Ombudsman from completing a thorough time-and-wages audit, crucial for ensuring that employees receive their full lawful entitlements.
Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth stated, “We have no tolerance for employers who knowingly provide our inspectors with false records. Employers need to be aware that taking action to protect young and migrant workers is a priority for the Fair Work Ombudsman.” The message is clear: violations of record-keeping laws will not be tolerated.
This legal action against Mr. Gogikar is one of five initiated by the Fair Work Ombudsman against former operators of United Petroleum-branded outlets, part of a broader investigation into compliance issues within the United Petroleum network. The investigation involved audits across 20 outlets spanning Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia.
Earlier this year, two similar legal actions resulted in penalties totaling $179,221 for underpayments at two United Petroleum outlets in Tasmania. Meanwhile, two other cases against different operators are still active, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of the fuel retail sector.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has filed a total of 146 litigations involving visa holder workers, successfully securing nearly $23 million in penalties over the last seven financial years. This aggressive stance underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of all workers, particularly those on visas who may be more susceptible to exploitation.
For anyone with concerns regarding their employment rights, the Fair Work Ombudsman encourages workers to reach out for free assistance. The agency emphasizes the importance of proper record-keeping and compliance with wage laws to protect employees from unfair treatment.
As this situation develops, it serves as a stark reminder for employers about the critical importance of transparency and adherence to labor laws. Stay tuned for more updates as the Fair Work Ombudsman continues its efforts to ensure that all workers receive fair treatment in the workplace.
For additional information, visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline at 13 13 94. An interpreter service is available at 13 14 50.
