ALEX White, secretary of UnionsACT, has taken aim at Crust Pizza.

“Unions are deeply troubled by yet more serious allegations of underpayments of vulnerable workers,” Alex said.

“There is no question that the Crust Pizza head office has been aware of underpayments and sham contracting for many years.

“Other Crust franchises in the chain have been prosecuted for similar underpayments, yet Crust continues to turn a blind eye to the willfulexploitation of young workers.

“This particular instance has come to light because of the courage of one of Crust’s delivery drivers, Priya De, who has stood up. As a result she has effectively been sacked by the franchise owner.

“It takes incredible bravery to speak up against this kind of exploitation, and it is unacceptable that Priya, or any worker, faces dismissal for exercising her lawful workplace rights.

“These revelations highlight the need for stronger protections for vulnerableemployees working for franchises.

“UnionsACT will run a campaign not only to get Priya reinstated, but to call on Crust to pay every cent it owes to its employees.”

Crust have sent this response:

Crust head office became aware of the situation concerning a franchised outlet in Canberra on Thursday 10 September. Immediately upon becoming aware of the matter a full internal review was initiated. Subsequent to the Franchisor’s engagement, the Franchisee has committed to promptly resolve all issues identified, including the payment of any monies owed.

More generally the Franchisor has a zero tolerance policy for franchisees who fail to properly discharge their obligations to employees.