What is an annualised wage arrangement? Some modern awards contain provisions for an annualised wage arrangement. An annualised wage arrangement is a mechanism by which an employer pays an annualised wage to an award employee that is equal or superior to the entitlements required by the modern award. This allows for payment of a higher […]
Casual employment is a popular option for employers who want flexibility. However, employers should not assume that this flexibility allows them to dismiss casual employees without due process or consequence. In the recent decision of Kurt Wallace v AFS Security 24/7 Pty Ltd, an employer was harshly criticised for summarily dismissing a casual security guard […]
After a lengthy spell in parliament, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Enhancing Whistleblower Protections) Bill 2018 passed both Houses of Parliament on 19 February 2019. The policy reasons for these new laws are stated in the Explanatory Memorandum: Combating corporate crime is a longstanding law enforcement and public policy challenge. Corporate crime is estimated to cost […]
With a Federal Election due to be held by May 2019, industrial relations is already shaping up as a key battleground for the major political parties. The Australian Labor Party (Labor) has announced several policies relating to employment and industrial relations in their 2018 draft National Policy Platform. In the event Labor are elected, the […]
On 1 November 2018, some changes to the long service leave (LSL) provisions in Victoria will apply when the Long Service Leave Act 2018 (Vic) (the 2018 Act) comes into effect, replacing the Long Service Leave Act 1992 (Vic) (the 1992 Act). The changes are designed to provide greater flexibility in how long service leave […]
Interviewer: Madeleine Jones, Legal Research Assistant – Madeleine is a recent law graduate, having come to law from a career in public health with a compliance focus. Madeleine worked as a Healthcare Consultant, then later with an international development organisation. It was this experience which piqued her interest in the study of law. She sought to […]
During a Fair Work Commission (the Commission) matter, seeking permission for a representative to appear on the employer’s behalf may merely seem like a box to be ticked. However recent cases from the Commission serve as a reminder that obtaining permission to have a lawyer or paid agent appear on your organisation’s behalf is not […]