The SDA – the state’s largest union – has lodged a claim in the Federal Court against Eudunda Farmers Limited – an Adelaide-based operator of 20 Foodlands and IGAs in regional South Australia.
The SDA is alleging that widespread underpayments of at least 64 workers and other serious breaches have occurred at the Eudunda Farmers stores over a number of years.
Of the current workers involved in the claim, the SDA is alleging that:
- 47 workers were misclassified and underpaid an average estimate of $10,000 each over 6 years
- 87% of workers were casual employees despite working regular hours and were not given the opportunity to transfer to permanent positions
- Workers were denied cold work, higher duties and laundry allowances under the Retail Award
- Workers were denied overtime rates when working over 38 hours a week
The SDA is pursuing millions in backpay for impacted workers so far and is asking the Court to award penalties for these breaches.
This backpay amount is likely to increase as more workers come forward.
Eudunda Farmers Limited is a private company with headquarters in Adelaide that employs over 350 workers in 20 regional South Australian towns stretching from Clare and Port Augusta to Barmera and Bordertown.