Paralleling changes in our economy and more decentralised enterprise bargaining over the last 30 years have been falls in the level of union membership.
This article is one of three exploring the history of industrial relations regulation in Australia over the last 30 years, to place the changes that have eventuated in the context of the current uncertainty in the world economy and particularly the problems being experienced by Europe. This article focuses on changes in the award system. The other articles look at calls to increase the involvement of Fair Work Australia in arbitrating collective bargaining disputes in the aftermath of the Qantas dispute, as well as continuing declines in union membership.
The introduction of Australia’s first statutory paid parental leave (PPL) scheme for the private sector begins on 1 January 2011, with eligible parents now able to lodge claims with the Family Assistance Office (FAO) for PPL instalments for children to be born or adopted on or after 1 January 2011.
We often get asked by clients about whether individuals can be engaged as contractors. Its a very complex area, with different tests applied by different agencies and for different purposes. The ATO has a decision tool which will help you meet Tax and Superannuation obligations.
