There are claims that worker exploitation in the hospitality industry is being swept under the rug because operators are left unchecked.

A survey by the Restaurant Association unearthed reports of people having to pay their employer to stay in work, working without pay and having their families overseas threatened if they didn't comply.

It also found 20 percent of operators believe exploitation is rife in the industry.

Restaurant Association President Mike Egan told Mike Hosking there isn't enough protection for people who are brought into the country to work.

"There's not enough labour inspectors out there, they are under funded, there's five for the whole country that go out and have a look at these employers."

LISTEN TO MIKE EGAN TALK WITH MIKE HOSKING ABOVE