Latest News

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.

Casual Employment – A Practical Guide for Employers
Employers have many obligations when it comes to casual employment, that are often overlooked. There are recent changes that Employers need to be aware of, both when engaging casual workers and during the course of their employment.

CASE STUDY: The 2024 Country Road CEO Investigation
Ongoing investigation involving their CEO and former chief supply chain officer, into the mishandling of sexual harassment complaints is a powerful reminder of how serious workplace issues can impact any organisation.

CASE STUDY: Critical Role of Policies in Workplace Fairness
A recent Fair Work unfair dismissal decision highlights the importance of clarity and consistency in application of company policies and procedures.

Employer Quick Guide to Working from Home
Quick Guide to WFH – Is working from home an entitlement? How do we make this work for our team? All your questions and more are answered!

CBA’s $10 Million Fine: A Wake-Up Call for Employer’s in Payroll Compliance Practices.
Paying employees a flat rate or salary may appear cost-effective but could lead to underpayment risks. By understanding these risks, employers can proactively implement robust processes to ensure compliance with awards, legislation, maintain positive employee relations, and protect their organisation’s reputation and financial health. Find out more.

Insights from AHRI June Quarter Report 2024
June Quarter 2024 Work Outlook Report reveals that Australia’s skills gap is harming productivity, with high turnover predicted to be a key cause.

New Government Grant for HR Services Now Available
The Qld Government has released an updated Business Boost Grant providing eligible businesses with funding for $10,000 to $20,000 worth of HR services.

End of Financial Year – HR Checklist
End of Financial Year HR Checklist – Your quick guide to maintaining and improving your HR function this EOFY.

More IR Reforms – August 2024
The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024, which received Royal Assent on 26 February 2024, lays the groundwork for upcoming key industrial relations reforms, particularly those set to take effect in August 2024. These reforms aim to enhance workers’ rights and protections.

More Changes to Casual Employment Legislation
Changes to casual employment come in to effect from 26 August 2024. Here’s what employers need to know.
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