Masterchef Australia Judge George Calombaris’ Restaurant Chain Taken Over by Government

Television’s popular show Masterchef Australia judge George Calombaris who runs a restaurant chain Made Establishment has lost control of his business after a wage scandal surfaced last year.

The restaurant chain, operating throughout the country, has now been taken over by the government under ‘voluntary administration’ as the future of the business seems gloomy.

“It is with deep sadness and regret that today Made Establishment has been placed into voluntary administration,” George Calombaris wrote on Instagram as he announced his restaurant’s current status.

“To all of my team, I truly regret it has come to this. I am so sorry all our collective efforts have not proved to be enough. I’m gutted that it’s come to this,” he added as he thanked his team, friends and loyal customers of the last 13 years.

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Earlier last year, Calombaris came under fire as it was revealed that he underpays his staff at many of the restaurants he owns. At the time, the chef had to pay a heavy fine for what was called embezzlement of millions of Australian dollars.

Following the controversy, he stepped down as Masterchef Australia judge, and fellow judges Gary Mehigan and Matt Preston too stepped down. The show had then to be wrapped up after 11 seasons, despite its global success.