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Key HR Changes Effective 1 July 2025: What Employers Need to Know
As of 1 July 2025, several significant changes to employment laws and entitlements have come into effect across Australia. These updates impact wages, superannuation, parental leave, and workplace rights. Employers must understand and implement these changes to ensure...
Workplace Sexual Misconduct and Positive Duty: New Compliance Measures for Employers in 2025
With major legislative reforms introduced in NSW and QLD — and increasing federal focus on the positive duty to prevent sexual harassment under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) — the legal and reputational risks for Australian employers have never been higher....
Psychosocial Risks, Unreasonable Additional Hours and the Right to Disconnect
As workplace mental health gains increasing regulatory focus, employers must revisit their obligations around psychosocial hazards, working hours, and the right to disconnect. Recent high-profile cases and new legislation highlight that ignoring these risks can expose...
Wage Underpayments is Now a Criminal Offence!
From 1 January 2025, employers who intentionally underpay employees (wage theft) could face criminal charges, with severe penalties including fines up to $7.825 million and 10 years’ imprisonment for individuals. These new laws reinforce the need for strict payroll...
Critical Reminders for Heavy Vehicle Operators: Fatigue and Brake Safety
With road fatalities on the rise across Australia in 2024—including a significant number involving heavy vehicles—fatigue management and brake safety have never been more critical. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has reinforced these concerns, making it...
After the Christmas Party – Avoiding a Legal Hangover
As the festive season begins, workplace celebrations can be a source of joy—but also significant risk. With recent updates to Australian workplace laws, including the Positive Duty under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth), employers now face heightened obligations...
Positive Duty Case Study: What Employers Need to Know
The recent updates to the Positive Duty Legislation and initiatives from Respect@Work are reshaping workplace obligations for employers in Australia. These updates reinforce the employer’s responsibility to actively prevent discrimination, harassment, and bullying,...
Rising Cost of Psychosocial Risks The Latest Data and Trends
The latest report from Safe Work Australia highlights trends in workplace psychological health, with an increasing number of mental health-related compensation claims. These insights underline the critical need for employers to address psychosocial risks to protect...
Workplace Health and Safety – A Focus on Psychosocial Wellbeing
Workplace health and safety (WHS) responsibilities no longer focus solely on physical risks. WHS increasingly encompasses employees' health and wellbeing, including mental and emotional health. This is reflected in Safe Work Australia's Psychosocial Code of Practice,...