Getting The House In Order—Update On Government Workplace Relations Policy

As the clock strikes 100 days since the Coalition government came to power, we thought it was time to review progress on several of the Federal Government's promised industrial relations changes.

Not Averse to Reaction When It Comes to Adverse Action. During the election campaign the Coalition undertook to clarify that the subjective intention of the decision-maker is the central consideration when it comes to employers making decisions which have an adverse effect on employees. The Coalition had also promised to convene an Australian Law Reform Commission Inquiry into the reverse onus of proof. Though there is not yet any indication as to when any changes will be introduced, the Fair Work Commission has issued a draft bench book for general protections matters and is seeking public comments by 27 December 2013.