The Fair Work Ombudsman will unleash inspectors across up to 300 clothing manufacturing businesses in Queensland between now and Christmas, as part of the next round of workplace visits for the state.
Fair Work inspectors will check to ensure the businesses are paying employees correctly, maintaining appropriate employment records and that payslips are being issued and are in order.
Outworkers, employees who produce garments off business premises, will be of particular focus with inspectors set to check they are receiving full and proper entitlements.
Fair Work believes a large proportion of outworkers are migrants who may not be fully aware of their rights. The inspection follows a renewed focus on ethical garment sourcing in Australia.
Earlier this year, the federal government announced it would provide $4 million over four years to continue its support of Ethical Clothing Australia.
The joint union-industry initiative provides accreditation for local textile, clothing and footwear brands which ensure their Australian workers receive fair wages and decent conditions.
SUNNY STATE: Set for Fair Work inspectors.
