Workplace relations update | 19 May 2023

19 May 2023

Annual Wage Review 2022-23

An annual wage review hearing before the expert panel of the Fair Work Commission was held on Wednesday, in which ACCI participated.

ACCI reiterated its call for a moderate increase to national minimum and modern award wages of 4 per cent on July 1, inclusive of the 0.5 per cent legislated increase to the superannuation guarantee.

ACCI previously outlined its position in its initial submission and its reply submission to the Annual Wage Review 2022-23.

 

Paid parental leave inquiry – small business survey

As part of negotiations surrounding changes to the paid parental leave scheme made by the federal government in March, Senator David Pocock secured a commitment for a parliamentary inquiry into the role of small business employers in the administration of the Commonwealth scheme.

This inquiry will inform policy making ahead of a second tranche of paid parental leave changes coming before the parliament later this year.

To boost ACCI’s submission to the inquiry, evidence has been collected to support an amendment to the paid parental leave scheme legislation which would remove the requirement for small business employers to administer the scheme directly to eligible employees, leaving it to Services Australia.

ACCI thanks the members who assisted by distributing the survey and will provide a draft submission to members for feedback.

 

Statement of Principles on Genuine Agreement

Following the passage of the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs Better Pay) Act 2022, the Fair Work Commission was required to develop and implement a statement of principles. These principles are to guide employers in ensuring their employees have genuinely agreed to an enterprise agreement following the bargaining process.

That process has now been complete and the Full Bench has released a statement and the final version of the Statement of Principles on Genuine Agreement.

 

Review of the small claims procedure.

ACCI has been provided with a consultation paper by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations for its review of the small claims procedure.

The small claims procedure is an avenue in the courts for employees to settle disputes that are more minor and arise under the Fair Work Act 2009. It will soon undergo some changes as a consequence of the passage of the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022.

The Department is reviewing the effectiveness of the existing framework and potential changes.

It has sought a written submission from ACCI by COB May 31. ACCI is still seeking views from members on this issue.







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