Oz firm once dubbed 'world's best employer' deducting salaries from staff over toilet breaks

A company in Melbourne, which was once awarded with the best employer accolade, is in strife after deducting wages from staff members for toilet breaks.

At least three employees at an Aegis Australia call centre in Werribee had money taken from their pay for the amount of time they spent in the loo during their shift, News.com.au reported.

Staff at the outsourcing and contact centre company are required to explain if they are away from their desk for more than 90 seconds.

On returning to their computer after this time, they are sent an electronic alert prompting for exceptions to be made.

The employees are able to make up the time at the end of their shift.

Staff had reportedly threatened to report the matter to the Fair Work Ombudsman.

After the Herald Sun contacted the company, its chief executive, Andrew Hume, said the "minimal monies" deducted would be paid back to the concerned employees.

Aegis was recognised as an AON Hewitt Best Employer in 2011.