The 'work status' test is a core failing of the current IR system and must be updated in the Fair Work Act, an inquiry into the on-demand workforce recommends.
The Fair Work Ombudsman will now approach compliance and enforcement with greater flexibility as a result of "dramatically changed economic conditions" caused by the coronavirus.
The High Court has begun hearing an appeal over how much personal leave employees working non-standard shifts are entitled to. Also in this article: a roundup of dismissal rulings and JobKeeper disputes; extensions to COVID-19 award changes; and more.
The Federal Government rightly prioritised speed over perfection in rolling out pandemic business supports, but design flaws could "bite" in the coming months if they don't get urgent attention, according to a new thinktank report.
The High Court has updated and publicised its s-xual harassment policies in the wake of findings against a former judge. Also in this article, Western Australia's new IR bill; an employee retrenched at the height of COVID-19 who saw her employer advertising jobs weeks later can claim unfair dismissal; and more.
The ABC is backpaying $12 million plus a $600k contrition payment after underpaying nearly 2,000 employees. Also in this article, ACCC allegations against a workplace advisor; minimum wages rise; and more.
WorkPac is applying to appeal a ruling that has major implications for all employers of casual workers. Also in this article: how employers have upped the ante on wellbeing, concerns about mental heath support, new 'wage theft' laws, and more.
Many employers responded swiftly to COVID-19 by standing down workers, and now as restrictions lift they face big questions about which steps to take next. In this Q&A, an employment lawyer shares some guiding principles.
With IR reform discussions now underway, a workplace lawyer has called for a "reawakening" of some older practices as an alternative to simplifying modern awards.
The end of the JobKeeper stimulus poses a "significant threat" to Australian employment, a labour market analyst warns. Also in this article: organisations have largely impressed workers in their first-phase crisis response; employers weigh up keeping their workforce at home; new guidance on returning to workplaces safely; and more.
Costly legal disputes continue to highlight the many risks employers face when managing, disciplining, or dismissing employees while they are absent, injured or incapacitated. Attend this webinar for an up-to-date review of the legal framework applying to workplace absenteeism, injury and incapacity, and lessons from recent case law.
