Published 16 April 2020 On 1 April 2020, the Fair Work Commission (the FWC) issued a Statement outlining its intention to update 103 awards during the coronavirus pandemic. On 8 April 2020, the FWC made determinations varying 99 awards (listed at the end of this newsletter). The determinations inserted a temporary new schedule into these awards providing employees with: 2…
Author: Brian Powles
Brian is an accredited specialist in employment and industrial relations law, who is partner of a successful boutique Sydney law firm. He also hosts the Working Knowledge podcast.
Anti-Bullying Orders are not an End
Published 14 April 2020 Recently the Fair Work Commission held that interim anti-bullying orders are not a means by which an employee can prevent their termination in unfair circumstances until the anti-bullying application has been determined. Under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (the FW Act), the Fair Work Commission (the FWC) is able to issue anti-bullying orders…
COVID-19 Update: The Legislation Explained
Published 9 April 2020 On Tuesday, we published our Covid-19 Update: JobKeeper Payment – What we know so far newsletter. Yesterday, 8 April 2020, parliament sat in a special session to pass the Coronavirus Economic Response Package (Payments and Benefits) Bill 2020 and the Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus (Measures No. 2) Bill 2020. The bills include the framework under which…
COVID-19 Update: Variation of the Clerks – Private Sector Award 2010
Published 8 April 2020 On 28 March 2020, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) decided to vary the Clerks—Private Sector Award 2010 (the Award) by inserting Schedule I – Award Flexibility During the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Schedule aims to apply from 28 March 2020 until 30 June 2020. In summary, the temporary changes to the Clerks…
COVID-19 Update: JobKeeper Payment – What we know so far
Published 6 April 2020 On 30 March 2020, the Prime Minister announced that the Government would introduce ‘a $1,500 per fortnight JobKeeper payment to keep Australians in their jobs’. An urgent announcement made which was intended to prevent job losses. However, this scheme will depend upon legislation being enacted. We understand that parliament will return…
What are your Work Entitlements during the Coronavirus Pandemic?
Published 24 March 2020 After a season of devastating bushfires, Australia has now been hit by the outbreak of coronavirus (also referred to as COVID-19). Many employers are confronted with the impact the pandemic may have on their workplace and employees. Employers and employees should be aware of their rights and obligations in the midst…