Protecting Vulnerable Workers Bill 2017: How Will it Affect Franchisors?
With new laws set to hold the Franchisor responsible for Franchisee workplace violations, we take a look at how the new bill differs from the existing protections and what Franchisors can do to cover themselves from a costly penalty going forward.
In light of last year’s underpayment saga that saw many high profile Franchises failing to pay their staff Continue Reading
Abandonment of Employment: Your Obligations as an Employer
When abandonment of employment takes place within your organization, you may think it’s a clear cut case… think again.
It’s a common issue that an employee does not show up for work when expected. Maybe they’re sick? Maybe they forgot to adhere to the Company absence policy and call in? Maybe something urgent came up on the way to work? Usually, these non-attendance situations can be handled pretty easily and efficiently if Continue Reading
Employment entitlements during natural disasters or emergencies
If an employee cannot attend work due to a natural disaster or emergency, or if an employer has to temporarily close, employees may have entitlements under their Award or Agreement.
If no such entitlement exists, the Fair Work Act 2009 includes provisions which enable employers to stand down employees, without pay, where they cannot usefully be employed during a natural disaster or emergency. Continue Reading
New On-the-Spot Workplace Health & Safety Fines
Recent amendments to the QLD Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 include the introduction of 18 new infringement notice offences for key risk areas such as asbestos, hazardous chemicals and construction work.
The 18 new offences are eligible to be become infringement notice offences (PINs), commonly known as ‘on the spot fines’ under the State Penalties Enforcement Regulation 2014. Continue Reading
How much should you pay your staff?
Below are some common questions companies ask in relation to employee wages and conditions:
- * What are the industry rates?
- * Can I employ and pay staff fixed amounts for set tasks?
- * Do I have to pay penalties when agreeing to flexible working arrangements?
Our advice is, before employing a new staff member or agreeing to any changes in an employees working arrangements or conditions, you should always refer to Continue Reading
