The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has officially launched a national inquiry into workplace law compliance across the disability support services sector, aiming to strengthen protections for workers and promote a sustainable culture of compliance.

Why This Inquiry Matters

Between January 2020 and December 2024, the FWO:

• Responded to over 75,000 enquiries

• Received more than 2,500 anonymous reports

• Completed 3,000+ cases involving assistance requests, proactive investigations, or self-reported breaches

• Recovered nearly $68 million in unpaid wages for workers in the sector

These figures point to a sector facing serious compliance challenges—prompting the FWO to act.

“We have serious concerns about workplace compliance in the disability support services sector. The time is right to look at how we can boost compliance with workplace laws and ultimately drive systemic change.”

— Anna Booth, Fair Work Ombudsman

Key Focus Areas

The inquiry will:

• Identify causes of non-compliance and assess the adequacy of wage and condition entitlements

• Engage with key stakeholders, including workers, clients, management, digital platform providers, and directors

• Examine the impact of business models, workforce structures, and external pressures on lawful employment practices

• Investigate the role of digital gig platforms, migrant worker vulnerability, and the effects of casualisation

Sector Challenges Highlighted

Preliminary feedback to the FWO highlights several ongoing concerns:

• Rapid demand growth and workforce shortages

• Heavy casualisation and quick staff turnover

• Increasing reliance on migrant workers, many of whom may face language barriers or fear of reprisal

• Financial constraints among small and unregistered providers

• Ongoing regulatory reform and rising labour costs

Ms Booth also noted that workers from migrant backgrounds are a continued FWO priority, stating:

“We remind migrant workers that they have the same rights as any other worker in Australia, and they are protected even if they speak up about exploitation.”

A Collaborative Approach

The Inquiry was developed in consultation with the FWO’s Disability Support Services Reference Group, which includes unions, advocacy groups, business organisations, and relevant government agencies. The aim is to promote self-reporting, simplify compliance, and increase awareness among both workers and employers.

“We’re here to collaborate and listen. Our combined efforts will help make a difference in this critical sector,”

— Anna Booth

Get Involved

The FWO is inviting all workplace participants—including workers, providers, and clients—to contribute insights and experiences that will help shape the direction of the inquiry.

📝 Visit www.fairwork.gov.au to:

• Access resources tailored to the disability support services sector

• Use the anonymous report tool (available in multiple languages)

• Learn about your workplace rights and obligations

📞 For personalised advice, call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.
🗣️ Interpreter service available at 13 14 50.

About the Sector

The disability support services sector plays a vital role in supporting people with physical and intellectual disabilities. This includes:

• Personal care and domestic assistance

• Crisis support and community housing

• Emotional and social support

• Advocacy, policy and community development

By participating in this inquiry, we can all help create a stronger, fairer and more compliant future for both workers and the people they support.