Industrial relations isn’t just about legislation—it’s about navigating human relationships through change. From managing Drayton’s 1997 restructure to building Yancoal’s workforce and creating CleanCo’s unified culture, the key has been balancing technical excellence…
From filing cabinets and typewriters in 1974 to today’s digital workplaces, Australian industrial relations has undergone a remarkable transformation. Through roles at Education Queensland, MIM Holdings, CIG Gases, and into the coal industry, I’ve witnessed the evolutio…
Picture Australia, 2005. John Howard’s government had just won control of both houses, and everything we knew about workplace relations was about to change. WorkChoices wasn’t just another law—it was a revolution that divided the nation. Some saw it as the dawn of wor…
Remember 2009? As Australia shook off the GFC, something revolutionary happened in our workplaces. The Fair Work Act arrived, bringing a fresh approach to workplace relations. Gone were the complex rules of old, replaced by clear standards everyone could understand. It …
The Workplace Relations Act 1996 wasn’t just another law—it was the catalyst that transformed Australian workplaces forever. Gone were the days of phone book-sized awards and rigid rules about tea breaks. Instead, we entered an era where employers and employees could …
Imagine Australian workplaces where your pay was set by a distant tribunal, down to the last detail—even what you’d earn for working in the rain. Then came the 1990s revolution: enterprise bargaining. Suddenly, workplaces could negotiate their own deals, marking a pro…
Before the Sex Discrimination Act 1984, Australian workplaces were a different world. Women could be legally paid less than men, job ads boldly stated “males only,” and pregnancy meant possible dismissal. Then, with one pioneering piece of legislation, everything change…
In today’s tight labour market, effective retention strategies require a sophisticated approach to total rewards that goes well beyond base salary. While competitive pay remains crucial, successful organisations recognise that modern retention demands a holistic approac…
In today’s dynamic business environment, executive compensation isn’t just about competitive salaries—it’s about creating a comprehensive package that drives performance, ensures retention, and aligns with organisational goals. Modern remuneration strategies must bala…
The new right to disconnect legislation in Australia empowers employees to refuse work-related contact outside of hours unless reasonable. For employers, it’s more than compliance—it’s about fostering a balanced work environment. Review your policies, communicate clea…
Recent changes to Australia’s Fair Work Act have reshaped casual employment rules. The 2024 updates introduce an “employee choice pathway” for casual conversion, allowing eligible employees to initiate the process after 6 months (12 for small businesses). Employers must…
Discover the key changes introduced by the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 and what they mean for Australian employers. Learn how to ensure compliance with new rules on pay equity, job security, enterprise bargaining, and workplace pol…
Prepare for Success in Enterprise Bargaining
Before starting enterprise bargaining, evaluate its feasibility for your organisation. Engage key stakeholders early to align interests, define clear roles and responsibilities within your team, and conduct a thorough needs …