Domino's Pizza Franchisee Convicted for Migrant Exploitation

You know, I’d like to say I'm surprised by this, but I'm not. In this latest immigration news, Chang-Wei Tsao, also known as David Tsao, the former franchise owner of Domino’s Pizza in Kaiapoi, has been sentenced to 10 months home detention and ordered to pay reparations after pleading guilty to six charges, including migrant exploitation.

This chap coerced a worker into slogging beyond their visa expiry date and made three student visa holders work more than the 20 hours per week they were allowed while studying. To top it off, he was underpaying another employee and forcing them to cough up unlawful premiums amounting to over $7,000.

It’s a damning indictment of how some businesses operate in this country, exploiting vulnerable migrant workers who are just trying to make a living. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) launched an investigation after a complaint was lodged about a Domino’s Kaiapoi employee working in breach of their visa conditions.

What strikes me is the sheer gall of Tsao. Not only did he force these people to work illegally, but he also didn't pay them properly. This isn't just bending the rules; it’s outright exploitation. It’s a stark reminder that while most employers do right by their workers, there are still too many who don’t.

MBIE praised the investigators for their hard work and the empathetic approach they took when dealing with the exploited migrants. It's commendable, yes, but it also highlights the need for robust systems to protect migrant workers and ensure they know their rights and can safely report exploitation.

For all migrants out there who think they're being taken for a ride, MBIE urges them to speak up. Call them on 0800 20 00 88 or report via their website. This case should serve as a wake-up call to all employers that exploiting workers will land them in hot water. Tsao’s sentencing is a small victory for justice and a big warning to anyone thinking they can get away with similar behaviour.

And that's the immigration news for today. Follow and subscribe for more immigration content like this. Ka Kite Ano.