The Fair Work Ombudsman has launched legal proceedings against the former operators of three now-closed Cash Converters outlets in Melbourne, citing alleged underpayments and failure to comply with workplace laws.
The businesses, operated by SNNB Enterprises Pty Ltd, Taylors Business Pty Ltd, and Yarraville Business Pty Ltd, were all directed by Graeme Grainger. The stores were located in Epping, Taylors Lakes, and Yarraville.
The Ombudsman alleges the companies failed to act on Compliance Notices requiring them to rectify underpayments made to seven full-time staff, including store managers, retail workers, and shop assistants.
Inspectors issued the notices between November 2022 and February 2023 after identifying unpaid annual leave on termination and minimum wage underpayments during 2022. The companies were collectively required to repay $58,605, with individual amounts ranging from $2,972 to $16,833.
This marks the second time Yarraville Business Pty Ltd has faced court action from the Ombudsman. In 2024, the company was penalised $16,000 over similar breaches.
The unpaid entitlements relate to annual leave under the National Employment Standards, and minimum wage rates as set out in the General Retail Industry Award 2020. The Ombudsman alleges the companies failed to comply with the notices without reasonable excuse, and that Grainger was involved in the breaches.
If found liable, Yarraville Business Pty Ltd could face penalties of up to $33,300 for failing to comply with one Compliance Notice. Taylors Business Pty Ltd and SNNB Enterprises Pty Ltd could each face fines of up to $41,250 per breach.
Grainger faces potential penalties of up to $6,660 for his involvement in the Yarraville case and up to $8,250 for each of the four alleged contraventions linked to the other two companies.
“Where employers do not comply, we will take appropriate action to protect employees. A court can order a business to pay penalties and make payments to workers. Any employees with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact us for free advice and assistance,” said Anna Booth, Fair Work Ombudsman.
The regulator is also seeking court orders requiring the businesses to pay all outstanding entitlements, along with interest and superannuation. A directions hearing is scheduled in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Melbourne for July 10, 2025.