Topics: Workplace relations and safety

Closing loopholes in workplace law: what employers need to know

Earlier this year, the second tranche of the Federal Government’s significant workplace reforms passed into law, bringing major changes. The reforms, in combination with those passed in late 2023, introduce landmark change to Australia’s employment laws for employees, employers, independent contractors, gig workers and principals of most, if not all, Australian workplaces.

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Podcast: Coffee with CGW – Get to know Annie Smeaton

In this episode of the ‘Coffee with CGW’ podcast, join us for a coffee chat with workplace relations and safety partner Annie Smeaton and private clients partner Scott Hay-Bartlem. Their candid conversation delves into Annie’s background, explores her life outside work, and discusses what gets her excited about her work.

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Can employers require an employee to work on a public holiday?

In a major decision regarding the application of the public holiday provisions of the Fair Work Act, the Full Federal Court has found that terms of employment that require employees to work on a public holiday will not be consistent with the National Employment Standards. This is the case even in circumstances where an employer’s operations are conducted over 365 days per year and an employee’s remuneration includes compensation for the requirement to work on those days.

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Fair Work Commission confirms FBT payments are not earnings

In a recent decision, the Fair Work Commission has ruled that payments made on an annual basis by an employer to help reduce an employee’s fringe benefits tax liability are not counted as earnings. The decision resulted in the employee’s remuneration falling below the high-income cap and meant that it was open to the employee to pursue an unfair dismissal claim.

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