Many people would groan when they think about attending an Industrial Relations Workshop. But contrary to this, Industrial Relations Workshops are both interesting and informative. They can also provide you with the knowledge to ensure that your business complies with the legislative requirements of the Fair Work Act. Over the past twelve months I have attended a number of these workshops, all of which have been great. Last week I attended “Rights and Responsibilities in the Workplace”.
This workshop went through some of the recent changes in workplace law, dispelled some common workplace myths and provided up to date information relating to employer obligations; such as leave arrangements, bullying in the workplace, flexible working arrangements, general protections and adverse actions.
Some of the common myths that were dispelled were:
- Employees are entitled to Long Service Leave after 5 years.
- My employees said we could cash out their leave entitlement.
- I have to give my employee three warnings before I terminate their employment.
- I don’t use a modern award because my staff are on a salary.
- Employees don’t need to be paid for time spent opening and closing a store or attending training and meeting outside normal work hours.
- It is not mandatory to give employees payslips.
If you don’t know whether the above statements are fact or fiction, or are just interested in learning more, please give Austi Bookkeeping a call, or attend the next Industrial Relations Workshop. Further information regarding Industrial Relations Workshops can be found at http://www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au/oirwww/Workshops/IR_Workshops.page?.
