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New WFH Clause Added to the Clerks Award: What Employers Need to Know
From 26 October 2026, a new working-from-home clause will apply under the Clerks—Private Sector Award 2020. Here’s what employers need to know about requests, written agreements and reviewing existing arrangements.

Can You Discipline or Dismiss an Employee for Taking Sick Leave?
This Fair Work case highlights why managers need to understand employee leave entitlements before reacting to an absence. Here’s what employers need to know.

Thinking about demoting an employee? 5 things to check first
Before changing their role, responsibilities or pay, there are a few things employers should check first. From the employment contract to the applicable award and the reason for the demotion, getting the groundwork right can help avoid a much bigger HR problem.

When Does a Demotion Become a Dismissal?
A demotion doesn’t automatically mean an employee has been dismissed. But where a change significantly reduces an employee’s duties, responsibility or remuneration, the situation can become more complicated.

When Should Your Business Bring in External Help for a Workplace Investigation?
Discover the key signs it’s time to bring in an external workplace investigator and how early advice can help ensure a fair, compliant and defensible process.

Can I terminate an employee during probation?
They’re still on probation, so can’t we just let them go?
It’s a question we hear from employers when a new hire isn’t quite working out.

Christmas Workplace Planning Guide for Employers
From shutdown arrangements and employee leave to rostering, public holidays and Christmas parties, a little planning now can save you a few headaches later.

Can I stand down an employee without pay?
Stand downs without pay are only permitted in certain circumstances, and getting the requirements wrong can leave an employer facing a dispute or claim.

Is AI about to change the way workplace claims are handled?
The use of AI in the workplace is evolving quickly, and it’s worth understanding both the opportunities and the risks.

What happens if I underpay employees?
If you discover an underpayment, acting quickly is essential. Here’s what employers need to know about their obligations and the steps they should take to resolve the issue.

Driver Sacked for objecting to an Acknowledgement of Country
Questioning an Acknowledgement of Country during a toolbox meeting was one of the factors in an employee’s dismissal. The Fair Work Commission found the termination to be ….

FWC Rejects Unfair Termination Application from Transport Director
In its first ruling under new laws allowing road transport contractors to challenge terminations, the Fair Work Commission decided a delivery company director wasn’t protected because he wasn’t doing most of the work himself.

How much is staff turnover really costing your business and what can you do about it?
In Australia, 1.1 million people changed jobs in the year ending Feb 2024. That’s 8% of the workforce and every exit comes at a cost. From recruitment delays to lost productivity, employee turnover could be costing you $23K–$60K+ per person. Here’s what’s driving it and what you can do about it.

Tradie ‘Forced’ to Quit Due to Boss’s Swearing
A Fair Work ruling has found that constant swearing and aggressive behaviour by a boss pushed an electrician to resign and it’s being treated as an unfair dismissal.

The Pay Rise Conversation No One Wants
When a valued employee requests a pay rise that’s well above what’s realistic, it can leave employers feeling stuck.

Online Shopping on the Boss’s Time?
Employee’s online shopping during work hours. Is your company okay with this?

ABC Ordered to Pay $70K for Unlawful Termination
Fired Over a Social Media Post? This case shows the risks of unclear policies and external pressure influencing employment decisions and a reminder that even casual employees are protected under the Fair Work Act.

Griffith University to Repay $8.34M in Underpayments
One of the largest self-reports in the sector. Find out what caused the payroll errors, what the Fair Work Ombudsman is requiring, and what steps employers can take to avoid similar risks.

CONFIRMED Wages and Super Increase from 1 July 2025
From 1 July 2025, there will be a 3.5% increase to Award wages. Superannuation is also increasing to 12%. Here’s everything employers need to know.

End of Financial Year HR Checklist
A comprehensive checklist covering all aspects of HR, to ensure you are taking proactive measures to set your team and business up for success for the year ahead.
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