Tasmanian IT Business Operator Faces Court Over Alleged Unpaid Wages to a Young Worker
Posted on July 5, 2026 by The HR Bridge Team
On 6 July 2026, the Fair Work Ombudsman commenced legal action against a Tasmanian IT business operator for allegedly failing to comply with a Compliance Notice involving a young worker.
Facing court is Maurice Fredrick Hays, a sole trader operating ‘Hays Technologies Tasmania’ in Devonport.
The Fair Work Ombudsman investigated after receiving a request for assistance from a 21-year-old casual IT support worker employed by Mr Hays between June and August 2025.
A Fair Work Inspector issued a Compliance Notice in January 2026 after forming the belief that the worker had not been paid any wages for 135 hours of work performed. The Inspector determined the worker was entitled to minimum wages plus the casual loading under the Miscellaneous Award 2020. The amount required to comply with the Compliance Notice was $4,089.
The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges that Mr Hays failed to comply with the notice without a reasonable excuse.
Why This Case Matters
Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth stated: “Where employers do not comply, we will take appropriate action to protect employees… Employers should be aware that taking action to protect young workers is one of our top priorities.”
Mr Hays faces a maximum penalty of up to $19,800. The Fair Work Ombudsman is also seeking a court order requiring him to pay the outstanding $4,089, plus interest.
This case highlights that even relatively short periods of unpaid work can result in enforcement action — particularly when the affected employee is a young worker.
Key Lessons for Small Business and Sole Traders
- Compliance Notices must be taken seriously.Failure to comply can lead to court action and personal penalties.
- Young workers are a priority area for the Fair Work Ombudsman.
- All hours worked must be paid correctly, including the casual loading under the relevant Award (in this case, the Miscellaneous Award).
- Sole traders are personally liablefor underpayments and for failing to comply with Compliance Notices.
- Even short engagements (a few months) can create significant compliance exposure if wages are not paid.
Practical Steps for Employers
- Respond fully and promptly to any Compliance Notice issued by the Fair Work Ombudsman.
- Ensure casual employees receive the correct minimum rate plus casual loading for every hour worked.
- Keep accurate time and wage records from the first day of employment.
- Use the Fair Work Ombudsman’s free Pay Calculator to confirm rates under the Miscellaneous Award or other relevant instruments.
- Complete the free online Compliance Notice course available on the Fair Work website.
At HR Bridge Australia, we support small businesses, sole traders and IT operators with Award compliance, casual employment obligations and responses to Fair Work notices. Addressing issues early helps avoid court action and protects both workers and the business.
If you have received a Compliance Notice, or would like a review of your current pay practices for casual or young workers, we are here to assist.
