Industry Updates

Please note that the information provided below is relevant as of 28/06/18. To receive news on the latest legislative changes, sign up for our Free Monthly Newsletter.

New Minimum Wage now in force

Australia’s new Minimum Wage is now in effect and all businesses must now comply with the increased rates. The changes were announced in June and include:

• 3.5% increase to all Modern Award rates (with weekly wages rounded to the nearest $0.10)
• 3.5% increase to the National Minimum Wage, taking it to $18.93 per hour (and $719.20 per week for a full-time employee), an increase of $0.64 per hour

If you need any advice on understanding and implementing these changes to wages please call us on 1300 207 182 to discuss.

Modern Awards now apply to Norfolk Island employers

On 1 July, Norfolk Island completed its transition to the Federal industrial relations system, meaning that Modern Awards now apply in full to Norfolk Island employers.

Modern Awards set out the wages, conditions and entitlements that now apply to employees, covering various industries and occupations. For information on how the change affects you and your business, call Employsure on 1300 207 182.

Penalty Rate reduction enters next phase

The next phase of changes to Australia’s Penalty Rates came into effect on 1 July 2018.

Penalty Rates for employees working in the retail, fast-food, hospitality and pharmacy industries were all reduced, continuing the Federal Government’s phased approach to delivering the changes.

For information on how the change affects you and your business, call Employsure on 1300 207 182.

New Fair Work Ombudsman announced

Deputy Secretary at the Department of Jobs and Small Business Sandra Parker has been appointed Australia’s next Fair Work Ombudsman.

Parker will commence her five-year term on 15 July, following the conclusion of current Ombudsman’s Natalie James’ tenure.

Fair Work Commission announces changes

As of 1 July 2018, the filing fee for dismissal, unlawful termination, general protections and anti-bullying applications increased to $71.90.

The high income threshold in unfair dismissal cases also increased to $145,400 and the compensation limit to $72,700.

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