A WODONGA cafe owner will roster two more staff on Sundays after a Federal Court decision this week rejected an appeal against lower penalty rates in the hospitality industry.
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A Fair Work Commission full bench in May cut the 75 per cent penalty for casual Sunday workers to 50 per cent.
The lower rate will now stand after the Federal Court rejected an appeal by United Voice — representing more than 120,000 workers.
Garden Gallery Cafe co-owner Andrew Pollard welcomed the decision, saying it was a great opportunity for staff to work more hours.
“Many places don’t open on Sundays — we are one of the few in Wodonga,” he said.
Mr Pollard has not talked to other Wodonga cafe owners but said it was a good opportunity for businesses to consider Sunday trading.
“It’s a win-win for business and staff,” he said.
Murray-Riverina NSW Business Chamber manager Ben Foley said he was pleased with the decision.
“The cost of staff in this sector is out of kilter with reality and any relief is welcome,” he said.
“This is a win for many small businesses in our region that may now choose to open their doors on a Sunday.”
Mr Foley said he hoped the decision would end the “ghost town” effect people often saw in regional towns.
“You see it particularly in smaller regional communities, on a Sunday, where it’s actually more cost effective to close rather than open the doors and be crippled by exorbitant hourly rates,” he said.
“I’m expecting cafe owners across the state to look to employ more staff.
“They are also likely to extend the shifts of those already employed.”
Mr Foley was stunned the union had challenged the Fair Work ruling in the Federal Court.
“Logically, they should welcome any opportunity that enables extra shifts for many of their members,” he said.
