Field Operations officers from the Department of Home Affairs, Liquor Control Victoria (LCV) Inspectors and Victoria Police uncovered unlawful non-citizens, liquor offences and licence breaches during a joint agency operation targeting karaoke bars in Melbourne earlier this month.
The operation involved unannounced late-night and early-morning visits to 14 karaoke bars across Melbourne's CBD. Officers and inspectors identified a range of alleged breaches, including:
Two unlawful non-citizens working in the industry
More than 20 offences under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998, including two venues permitting drunk people to remain on the premises
12 licence condition breaches relating to CCTV and patron safety
Other compliance offences.
Those identified during the operation face a range of possible enforcement outcomes, including immigration detention, removal from Australia, visa cancellation, the grant of a bridging visa to depart Australia, financial penalties, formal warnings and other sanctions.
Field Operations officers also used the visits to educate workers on the risks of migrant worker exploitation and human trafficking in the karaoke industry, which is known to employ women from Taiwan, China, South Korea and Japan. Some workers in this sector are also reported to provide sexual services onsite.
LCV Inspectors identified multiple persons that appeared to be intoxicated in karaoke rooms and reminded staff of their responsibilities under the responsible service of alcohol requirements. At one venue, a crowd controller attempted to hide person in the bathrooms during the inspection.
All venues were provided with information for employers on their obligations under the Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Act 2024, which commenced on 1 July 2024. Workers received material on their workplace rights and where to access help.
ABF Commander Field Operations and Sponsor Monitoring, John Taylor, said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable migrant workers and maintain the integrity of Australia's immigration system.
"Our officers are committed to identifying and educating businesses and workers about migrant worker exploitation and the dangers of human trafficking. Those who attempt to exploit Australia's visa system, by employing migrants without visa work rights will be caught," he said.
A spokesperson for Liquor Control Victoria said the regulator remained focused on minimising alcohol-related harm and would not hesitate to take action if licensees breached the law.
"These targeted compliance operations are critical in holding licensees to account and educating venue operators about their responsibilities when it comes to responsible service of alcohol," the spokesperson said.
"Holding a liquor licence comes with great responsibilities, and Liquor Control Victoria will continue to ensure licensees are holding up their end of the bargain and providing a safe environment for staff and patrons."
ABF Commander Taylor added ABF officers would continue to target high-risk industries nationwide to protect migrant workers and uphold the integrity of Australia's visa system.
Those who breach the law face heavy penalties for employing and referring illegal workers, or exploiting migrant workers. Penalties can include infringement notices, civil prosecution or being publicly declared a prohibited employer.
It has never been easier for employers to do the right thing. Businesses can check the work rights of prospective employees through Home Affairs' Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system to ensure they do not unintentionally allow illegal work.
Anyone with information relating to potential immigration offences or suspicious activity is encouraged to report it online at Border Watch. Reports can be made anonymously.
