Australian Border Force (ABF) with the support of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Western Australia Police, have conducted a major operation under Taskforce Cadena in Western Australia (WA) targeting labour hire intermediaries and employers suspected of exploiting foreign workers.
This multi-agency investigation targeted those involved in the organisation of visa fraud, illegal work and the exploitation of foreign nationals.
Officers from the ABF, AFP and WA Police executed several search warrants in Bullsbrook and Wanneroo. As a result of warrant activity, 36 illegal workers have been identified. This includes 28 lawful non-citizens working in breach of their visa conditions and 8 unlawful non-citizens.
ABF Superintendent Enforcement Command WA, Clinton Sims, said the ABF is committed to tackling the practice of illegal work in Australia.
“The ABF encourages businesses to meet their obligations and will deal firmly with those who deliberately choose to do the wrong thing,” Superintendent Sims said.
“This operation shows the work the ABF and its partner agencies are undertaking to target illegal labour hire operations and to stamp out illegal work and the exploitation of foreign nationals.
”Those found to be employing illegal workers can face criminal penalties, which carry fines for individuals up to $25,200 and/or two years imprisonment and up to $126,000 for corporations per illegal worker.
Taskforce Cadena, a joint agency initiative between the Department of Immigration and Border Protection led by its operational arm the ABF and the Fair Work Ombudsman.
Anyone who is aware of an individual, business or employer who might be facilitating visa fraud or illegal work is urged to contact Border Watch on 1800 009 623 or online at www.border.gov.au/report. Investigations are continuing into this matter.