Queensland’s labour hire licensing scheme has achieved a significant number of successful prosecutions since its commencement. To date, there have been 28 prosecutions for offences against the Labour Hire Licensing Act 2017 (LHL Act) with fines imposed by the courts totalling $2 million. A recent, and notable prosecution demonstrates the scheme’s effectiveness in enforcing the legislation.
Unlicensed labour hire operator fined $80,000 for illegal supply of workers
An unlicensed labour hire provider has pled guilty to charges brought by the Queensland Labour hire licensing compliance unit (LHLCU) of illegally supplying workers to pick and pack produce at two farms in the Mareeba region for a period of approximately eight and a half months and was fined $80,000.
During the proceedings, the Mareeba Magistrates Court was informed that the unlicensed provider used a labour hire licence registered to another entity to provide labour hire services without the authority or knowledge of the licensed labour hire provider. The conduct and behaviour of the unlicensed provider was a deliberate effort to mislead the farms into believing they were receiving labour hire services from a legitimately licensed provider.
The unlicensed provider had full knowledge of the licensing requirements, having previously undergone an application and audit interview, and having been warned by LHLCU inspectors about providing unlicensed labour hire services.
In delivering the sentence on 23 July 2025, Magistrate Priestly noted that workers had consequently not received their full entitlements and protections under the relevant laws. The Magistrate further remarked on the sophistication and deceit involved in the case, emphasising the unlicensed provider’s efforts to present themselves as a legitimate licensed operator.
The $80,000 fine serves as a significant reminder that those who attempt to exploit legitimate licenced providers face serious consequences under the law.
The successful prosecution highlights the LHLCU’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding workers from exploitation and upholding the integrity of the labour hire industry throughout Queensland.
The LHLCU is responsible for regulating and ensuring compliance with Queensland’s labour hire licensing scheme (the scheme). Since the scheme commenced in 2018, there have been 28 successful prosecutions resulting in penalties totalling $2 million imposed by the courts.
