The FWC has introduced two new forms aimed at smoothing the processes around casual conversion disputes and addressing agreement anomalies arising from new casual employee definitions.
The FWC has today launched a consultation process for its new anti-s-xual-harassment jurisdiction, which starts operating from November 11, while it has also published a benchbook on the regime.
Australia had less need than other countries to turn to legislation to provide short-term workplace flexibility in response to COVID-19 because of "swift" and "bold" yet self-restrained interventions by the FWC, according to new research.
The insights gained from the rapid shift to working from home during COVID-19 could lead to the adoption of a "genuine consultation" requirement under the Fair Work Act's "right to request" flexibility that might start "a conversation aimed at reaching a mutually suitable arrangement", according to a new paper by two leading IR academics.
The FWC has upheld a construction company's dismissal of a receptionist who juggled work with caring for a grandson with special needs, finding the small business was "exceptionally flexible and considerate" but the situation became untenable.
Coinciding with the launch of an FWC online hearings fact sheet, a commissioner has told an IR forum they will remain his default after COVID-19 restrictions ease, while other members have become "fervent converts".
The FWC has granted a contested AEC application to extend voting in a protection action ballot after pandemic-related postal delays held up workers' replies, but it has warned the agency to make more effort to comply with the tribunal's processes.
In a decision illustrating the delicate balancing act required of the FWC when considering axing old agreements, a recently-employed worker has succeeding in having a security company's 15-year-old deal scrapped over the loud objections of all but a few of his fellow employees.
Coles has failed to win more than $25,000 costs sought against an experienced Indian lawyer who unsuccessfully spent almost two years trying to challenge his sacking from one of its supermarkets while qualifying to practice in Australia.
