The workplace watchdog is taking its first court action using new reverse onus of proof laws that aim to protect vulnerable workers.

The reverse onus of proof laws require employers to disprove underpayment allegations when they have failed to keep adequate time and pay records or issue pay slips.

Photo: Eddie Jim Credit:

The Fair Work Ombudsman has taken action in the Federal Circuit Court against A & K Property Services Pty Ltd, which operates two 'Sushi 79' fast food outlets at Ipswich and the Sunshine Coast.

Fair Work Inspectors audited the Sushi 79 outlets based at Brassall, in Ipswich and Currimundi, on the Sunshine Coast, in 2018 as part of a proactive auditing activity.