What the regulator reported
In August 2024, Fair Work announced $15.3 million in penalties against former Sushi Bay operators and their owner. The companies underpaid 163 workers a total of $653,129 and falsified records. This was deliberate exploitation, not a finding of ordinary payroll processing mistakes.
What businesses can learn
Approval should not be reduced to a signature on a total. Keep source hours, agreed rates, adjustments and payment records traceable. Restrict who can change payroll data and require an explanation for material changes. Give employee queries a documented path to review.
Oversight needs independence
A person reviewing payroll should be able to challenge an instruction and escalate concerns. Records that appear inconsistent need investigation. Outsourcing does not eliminate deliberate misconduct, and a service provider cannot promise that controls will prevent every breach.
How SESAY can help
SESAY’s proposed approach uses documented responsibilities, review points and exception escalation. These are safeguards to strengthen oversight, with the client retaining final approval and legal responsibilities.
Discuss your payroll requirementsOfficial sources & further reading
General information, current at the review date. Check the linked regulator guidance for your circumstances and any later changes. SESAY service scope and authorisations are agreed before commencement.