The New Workplace

Australia is in the process of transitioning to a new labour market environment, following the introduction of the Fair Work Act 2009 (‘FW Act’) in July 2009.

The FW Act spelled the end of WorkChoices and signalled the beginning of dramatic adjustments to workplace relations. The implementation of new statutory and national safety net and award regulations requires organisations to review their current workplace relations practices and determine where and how the changes will affect the way they do business and interact with their workforces.

Rather than treat these legal changes as inconveniences, organisations should take the opportunity to reflect on their employee relations framework and determine how they can better engage their people within the new workplace environment.

Contract and policy reviews

A key challenge is ensuring legal compliance and the proper management of any risks associated with the new regulations. This will require a review of existing contractual and policy frameworks, HR processes and even technology systems.

A thorough company audit, which the FCB Group can provide, will help identify those areas of the business that need to be changed to reflect the new legal framework. In addition, we can assist with the development, implementation and rollout of refreshed HR policies and procedures to facilitate understanding and acceptance among staff members.

Operational reviews

The changed labour environment can also create new business opportunities for organisations that are prepared to rethink the way they employ their workforces to achieve corporate objectives. Our legal and HR experts can recommend the steps companies need to take to align their strategic goals with the new employment environment and make the changes work for their business.

By regularly assessing business strategies and looking for innovative ways to engage their people, organisations can enhance the contribution of their employees.

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