NSW Office of Industrial Relations deputy director general Pat Manser said 30 light industrial businesses would be among those visited.

“Inspectors will be providing information and advice on workplace rights and obligations under NSW industrial laws, including child employment laws and information to assist retailers, suppliers and contractors in complying with the Ethical Clothing Trades Scheme,” Ms Manser said.

“The most common breaches detected by inspectors during these visits include the underpayment of staff, not displaying the appropriate award, not supplying pay slips to employees and not keeping proper time and wage records.

“Most employers want to do the right thing, however, employers who ignore minimum legal standards will be prosecuted and can face fines up to $11,000 for each offence.”

The workplace inspectors will also be available to provide information to employers about their workplace responsibilities and the visits will offer an opportunity for employers to ask questions to ensure they are meeting their obligations to their staff.

“These visits ensure an equitable system for all employers and workers by maintaining fair and productive workplaces in NSW,” Ms Manser said.

“In 2008-09, NSW inspectors plan to visit 13,000 workplaces across the State to ensure that businesses are competing fairly and complying with their obligations as an employer.”

The Office of Industrial Relations will conduct a comprehensive series of ampaigns across the State and will also target specific industries that demonstrate below-average compliance, including road transport, retail, clothing manufacturers and cafes and restaurants.

For more information on workplace rights and obligations for both employers and employees, contact the Office of Industrial Relations on 131 628 or visit www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au.