Owners of a Karratha tavern have been fined $6000 for illegally employing two 14-year-old boys.
Under the Children and Community Services Act 2004, it is illegal for businesses in the hotel and tavern industry to employ children less than 15 years of age.
The Tambrey Tavern and Function Centre in Karratha, owned by Raydale Holdings, was charged for employing two boys whose duties included collecting cutlery, crockery and empty glasses from inside and outside the tavern.
One child worked 14 shifts, including one on a Friday night that finished after midnight.
The other child worked five shifts.
In a media statement, the Department of Commerce said the company pleaded guilty to the offences.
Department of Commerce labour relations division acting director Joseph Lee said the fine imposed demonstrated the seriousness of the offences.
"It should serve as a warning to all employers of the consequences of not abiding by the law," Mr Lee said.
"Of particular concern is the environment in which these boys were working.
"There are clear and inherent risks associated with children working in a licensed premise where patrons are consuming alcohol."
PERTH LISA CALAUTTI
