The Fair Work Ombudsman has recovered more than $39,000 for workers at video stores in Western Australia.

Thirty-five audits were completed across WA as part of a compliance and education campaign with less than half (16 stores, 46 per cent) found to be compliant with workplace laws, while 19 (54 per cent) were in breach.

Thirteen stores were found to have underpaid 72 employees a total of $39,666. Six stores also had breaches of laws relating to record keeping and pay slips.

Underpayments at individual stores ranged from $500 to $10,500. Businesses found to have underpaid staff were located in Perth and the Bunbury area, where one store underpaid nine employees a total of $3705.

Fair Work Ombudsman, Natalie James, said WA video stores were selected for this campaign because the sector had transitioned over the past few years to a Modern Award, the General Retail Industry Modern Award 2010.

“The campaign aimed to ensure employers understand their obligations under the Award and that workers were receiving their full entitlements,” James said.

“While the overall contravention rate is concerning, it is pleasing that all employers were receptive to Fair Work Inspectors assisting them to voluntarily back-pay staff and rectify other non-compliance issues, without the need for further action.

“Inspectors also assisted employers to put processes in place to ensure future compliance and no further action was required.”