Timeline of Fair Work Changes

📅 Key Dates and Developments

The Fair Work Ombudsman has released a handy guide outlining the timing of upcoming changes, the operative dates for the changes have been staggered to provide  the parties time to prepare. Here are some significant updates and insights:

🚨 Major Decision in Intractable Bargaining Determination (IBD) Matter

Cleanaway Case:

The first decision on an IBD matter has been made, with the full bench approving substantial increases of 26% over the life of the agreement for employees.

Key Learning:

The negotiation tactics are critical for an EA where IBD proceedings may commenced by either party. Its important to be cognizant that when agreement is reached on a particular item during negotiations, the agreed item is locked in and cannot be renegotiated as part of the overall package during proceedings before the Fair Work Commission.

🛠️ Same Job, Same Pay Update

Upcoming Changes:

As we approach the implementation date for the "Same Job, Same Pay" changes, there are several cases currently before the Fair Work Commission. The Mining Union (MEU) has been very proactive steps, recently settling a matter to increase the pay of labor-hire employees by up to $30,000 annually prior to the matter being arbitrated.

Key Learning:

Effective workforce planning is paramount for managing labor costs. The legislative changes for casual, fixed-term, and labor-hire employees, as well as modern award changes for part-time employees, must be integrated into the workforce mix.

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Stay tuned for more updates and make sure to review the timeline document for a detailed breakdown of the timing of these important changes.