Monthly Update—Australian Labour & Employment - January 2019

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

In this edition of the Update, we first report on new legislation passed in respect of modern slavery, review of Modern Awards and report on the introduction of domestic violence leave into the National Employment Standards ("NES"). Next, we report on three recent decisions concerning the employment status of workers in the gig economy and accessorial liability for underpayment of wages.

IN THE PIPELINE—HIGHLIGHTING CHANGES OF INTEREST TO EMPLOYERS IN AUSTRALIA

Modern Slavery Act Passes Through the Senate

On 29 November 2018, the Modern Slavery Bill 2018 (Cth) was passed in the Senate, establishing a "Modern Slavery Reporting Requirement" for large businesses operating in Australia, being organisations with consolidated revenue of more than $100 million. This annual reporting requirement will affect approximately 3,000 Australian businesses that now must account for their actions to address modern slavery risks in their operations and