Australia’s hospitality giant Merivale is facing a Fair Work investigation following claims that it underpaid and exploited migrant chefs, including eight recruited from Mexico. The chefs allege they were promised better working conditions, higher pay, and career opportunities, but instead faced long hours, unpaid overtime, and bullying.
The probe follows earlier allegations by media outlets, including Good Food and 60 Minutes, which reported that Merivale staff were often required to work beyond standard hours. The investigation comes just months after the company settled a $19.5 million wage theft class action, in which Merivale denied wrongdoing in.
Merivale, known for restaurants such as Mr Wong, Mimi’s, and Fred’s, partnered with recruitment agency Alliance Abroad International to bring in skilled migrant chefs. Three chefs said they were misled by the agency, with two suspending support program payments within the first year. They claim promised benefits like competitive salaries and work-life balance were not delivered.
Alliance Abroad’s global marketing director, Anna Downes, stated that a small number of concerns regarding rosters and overtime were escalated to Merivale’s HR team and subsequently handled internally. She denied that the agency condoned or facilitated the exploitation of migrant workers.
Merivale also denies all allegations of wrongdoing, insisting the company complied with its legal obligations and did not target migrant workers. The Fair Work Ombudsman confirmed it is investigating the company and encourages any workers with concerns to come forward for assistance.
Why is Merivale under investigation?
The investigation focuses on claims of underpayment, excessive work hours, and alleged mistreatment of migrant chefs, following both media reports and prior wage theft settlements.
The hospitality giant is also expanding rapidly, with a $55 million Melbourne development and a new spa, hotel, and nightclub in Sydney, which has raised scrutiny over labor practices in high-pressure kitchens.