THE operators of a Wallsend dumpling restaurant have copped more than $10,000 in fines after the Fair Work Ombudsman launched action over their treatment of employees, including international students.

The Federal Circuit and Family Court imposed a $4563.54 penalty against Kailiang Chen and a $5915.70 penalty against Alex Du.

They operate the restaurant Dumpling Land as a partnership.

The investigation into Dumpling Land's underpayment began as part of a blitz of surprise inspections at Newcastle eateries in April 2023.

The Fair Work Ombudsman had sought the penalties after the pair had failed to comply with breach notices issued in August 2023.

"A Fair Work Inspector issued the compliance notice after forming a belief that Mr Chen and Mr Du had underpaid 28 workers their minimum wa

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