New And Noteworthy – Identifying Key Developments In Australian Labour Regulation

Edited by Adam Salter

PARLIAMENT WATCH: FAIR WORK AMENDMENT ACT

The Fair Work Amendment Bill 2013 (" Bill ") is looking on track to take effect from 1 January 2014. As reported in our April and March Updates, the Bill seeks to introduce new anti-bullying provisions, expand the scope of the FWC, update modern awards and improve workplace flexibility for families including expanding the right to request flexible work arrangements, eligibility for carer's leave and protections for pregnant women.

The Bill was recommended by the House Standing Committee on Education and Employment ("Committee") in its report delivered on 5 June 2013. Subsequently, the Bill has been amended following the withdrawal of support from the Independents in Parliament. Relevantly, the Bill has "watered down" the additional right of entry proposals for visiting union officials and introduced a new option that will see the FWC arbitrate eligible adverse actions disputes if the parties