MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR
In this edition of the Update, we first report on the
decline in labour costs and the Prime Minister's decision not
to lift the retirement age. We also highlight the South Australian
Government's decision to repeal labour hire licensing laws. We
then comment on the introduction of new laws addressing the gender
pay gap as well as the recommendations made to introduce new laws
that address industrial issues in the gig economy. Finally, we
discuss the industrial action planned by NRL referees and a recent
decision regarding flexible working arrangements.
IN THE PIPELINE—HIGHLIGHTING CHANGES OF INTEREST TO
EMPLOYERS IN AUSTRALIA
Labour Costs in Decline
Australian labour costs have seen an annual decline of 1.2
percent, while gross value in the market sector rose by 0.5 percent
in the corresponding period. There has also been a rise in hours
worked in the market by 2.1 percent over the year, according to the
Australian Bureau of Statistics
