Hotels are bracing for audits

RANDOM checks of Ballarat pubs and hospitality businesses could start next week. Work conditions in the sector will be scrutinised as part of a national audit of the hospitality industry by the the Federal Government's Workplace Ombudsman. The ombudsman has warned breaches of the Workplace Relations Act carry a maximum penalty of $33,000. The three-month campaign will target hotels, restaurants, taverns, bars, and clubs.Workplace inspectors will check to ensure hospitality businesses offer correct rates of pay, penalty loadings, allowances and meal breaks.They will also check that juniors are not serving alcohol and workplace agreements have been approved and lodged.Ballarat Trades Hall secretary Graeme Shearer said he welcomed the audit and that it would be good for all parties involved."I would welcome it in Ballarat. I think it will be very good for the industry and particularly good for the employees that are employed in the industry. "It will be good for employers because if they're making a mistake, and they're genuinely not paying appropriate rates it will be brought to their attention."According to a statement efrom the Ombudsman's office, information packs have been sent to 8000 hospitality businesses nationally to inform them of the audit.The Ombudsman had consulted with key stakeholders in the industry, including the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union and the Australian Hotels Association, the statement said. AHA Victorian branch vice president and Ballarat publican Ian Larkin could not be contacted for this story. A report on the audit will be published at the end of the campaign.