Small gourmet seafood business fined over $1700 in fines, penalties and other costs after failing to supply wage records to WorkCover WA.

WorkCover WA has successfully prosecuted Mr James Bowring Steven in the Perth Magistrate’s Court for failure to supply wage records and other documents after being served notices by a WorkCover WA compliance officer. Mr Steven was fined $700 and ordered to pay a further $1,019.20 in costs as a result of the prosecution.

WorkCover WA Manager, Compliance, Nigel Steele wished to remind employers that “there is a requirement under the Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 for employers to produce wage records and related documents when served a notice requesting such documents by WorkCover WA.”

“In this case, Mr Steven was prosecuted for failing to supply wage records, as he chose to ignore the notices served by WorkCover WA,” Mr Steele said.

Mr Steven had been contacted by WorkCover WA prior to the initial compliance visit, and was given the opportunity to rectify the lapsed workers’ compensation policy. WorkCover WA compliance officers also attempted to contact Mr Steven in person on several occasions after serving the notices.

“It is important for employers to realise that they cannot avoid penalties just by ignoring notices served by WorkCover WA. Rather, it is beneficial for all parties to ensure that the requested documents are provided to WorkCover WA promptly, so that investigations do not linger for extended periods of time.”

The Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Scheme aims to provide a safety net for workers who suffer a work related injury or illness and facilitate a supported return to work.

WorkCover WA provides a range of information to employers and employees to help them understand what requirements they need to meet regarding Workers’ Compensation, Injury Management and Return to Work programs under the Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981.