The AMWU is trying to save four Filipino workers from deportation after they were sacked by their employer Premier Building Solutions in Perth.

The men were sacked in early March after they complained to the union about their wages and accommodation arrangements. The AMWU is taking their case for unfair dismissal to the Industrial Relations Commission and the Workplace Ombudsman.

West Australian AMWU Secretary Steve McCartney said the case is another example of exploitation of 457 visa workers.

“They were living in a one bedroom flat, paying $150 a week rent to a company of which their boss Joe Scaffidi and his wife Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi are directors. The workers are owed by our estimates $50000.

The workplace ombudsman is investigating the matter and in particular the issue of freedom of association.

“The employer is maintaining that the economic downturn is the reason for the dismissal, but the facts speak for themselves.”

The AMWU is fighting for the workers to stay in Australia so their claims can be investigated. Under the terms of a 457 visa, workers must leave the country within 28 days if they are dismissed by their employer and cannot find another company to employ them in Australia.

“If the men are deported before their cases have been heard, it’s highly unlikely that they will be able to afford to return to Perth to give evidence in court in relation to any of their complaints, including the underpayment of their wages and unlawful dismissals,” said Mr McCartney.

“If this happens, a gross injustice will occur.”

Mr McCartney is also concerned that the company will use stalling tactics to avoid dealing with the workers’ grievances.

“By refusing the give these workers more time to sort these issues out, the Department of Immigration will be letting the company get away with this kind of exploitation,” he said.