“Our audits have established a link between prices and wage underpayments and it is clear that the true cost of cheap food may be the employees’ lawful entitlements. We will take enforcement action if [Tuesday’s] audits find serious breaches of workplace laws,” Ms Parker said.

She said the hospitality industry was overrepresented in contacts to the Fair Work Ombudsman 2017-18, with 18 per cent of workplace disputes recorded, a third of court actions and almost 40 per cent of all anonymous reports. This is despite the industry representing just 7 per cent of the workforce.

Ms Parker said the hospitality sector employs a large proportion of vulnerable workers, including young workers, students and visa holders.

“With several higher education institutes located in and around the Melbourne CBD, a large proportion of students live and work in the area. Our inspectors will educate workers about their workplace rights and empower them to seek help with any workplace issues,” Ms Parker said.

Jess Walsh, the United Voice Victorian Secretary said, news of the raids was "a huge win" for its Hospo Voice members and thousands of Victorians who signed a petition demanding action against the Melbourne venues. She said some cafes paid workers as little as $11 an hour.