Australia implements strict laws to combat students, worker exploitation

Sydney: Australia has introduced new legislation to protect workers from exploitation, effective January 1. The law targets businesses that pay employees less than the prescribed minimum wage or deny them basic rights, making such negligence a punishable offense.

The move aims to address longstanding issues of worker exploitation, particularly among international students and migrant workers with temporary visas, who are often used as cheap labor.

Anna Booth, head of the Fair Work Ombudsman, emphasized the severity of penalties for violations. Employers found guilty could face up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $1.65 million.

The legislation marks a significant step toward ensuring fair treatment of workers and deterring exploitative practices in Australia.