Affected by the ‘Work Choices’ amendments to the federal Workplace Relations Act?

The ‘Work Choices’ amendments to the federal Workplace Relations Act radically altered the rules governing relationships between companies and their employees.  An increased emphasis on Australian Workplace Agreements, complex transitional arrangements from state-based industrial relations systems and a tough regime of penalties have created significant risks for companies and their directors.

Of fundamental importance is:

• A correct understanding of whether a person engaged by a company is an employee or a contractor; and
• Having clear written terms of engagement between the parties which comply with the ‘Work Choices’ amendments. 

Covering those two items at the start of the relationship is the best way to avoid the possibility of subsequent disputes.  Tyler & Co has long experience in advising clients on them and crafting enforceable employment and contractor agreements which comply with the legislation.

To help you avoid problems in your employee/contractor arrangements, Tyler & Co can:

• Analyse and advise whether particular arrangements are for employment or contracting;
• Advise on statutory entitlements and obligations;
• Draft employment and contracting agreements that comply with industrial laws;
• Draft employee manuals and policy statements; and
• Advise on your human resource management and training procedures.

Contact us for a checklist of issues to consider when negotiating an employment contract or contractor agreement. Click here for a case study.

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