More than a third surveyed in Fair Work Ombudsman report say they earn less than the minimum wage, and some say they work just for accommodation

This article is more than 3 years old

This article is more than 3 years old

Backpackers are being sexually harassed, underpaid and exploited by unscrupulous employers in regional Australia, the workplace regulator has found.

And most of them do not complain, fearing a backlash from their employers.

A two-year national inquiry into the conditions of working holiday visa holders has confirmed recent reports that some are being taken advantage of.

The Fair Work Ombudsman report found that not only was it common for workers to be underpaid, but some were not paid their wages at all.

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Sexual harassment, withholding passports without permission, and payment for tools and equipment that the business was meant to provide were also common.

Some workers were asked to pay for their jobs and accommodation, while others worked for free in exchange for non-certified accommodation.

More than a third surveyed in the report said they were paid less than the minimum wage, while 14% said they had to pay before getting work and 6% had to pay an employer to “sign off” on their regional work requirement.

Some were subjected to pay deductions that they did not agree to in writing as legally required.

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Most of those surveyed – especially Asian workers – did not know their work rights. Unscrupulous businesses are believed to be targeting this group because of the lack of awareness.

Overall, 38% of respondents felt positive about their work experience.

The report calls for changes to visa rules and laws, and making governments and authorities work together to ensure backpackers are protected and aware of their rights.

The ombudsman Natalie James issued a warning to employers, saying minimum pay rates in Australia were non-negotiable.

“Those who turn a blind eye to exploitation face very real risks – legal risks and risks to reputation and impact on their bottom line,” she said.