As of midnight on 3 August 2026, Australia's temporary fuel excise relief came to an end, resulting in fuel excise returning to its ordinary rate. While motorists are likely to experience upward pressure on retail fuel prices over coming weeks, the...
The Federal Government has announced amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) aimed at improving the efficiency of proceedings before the Fair Work Commission (FWC). The proposed changes will: Allow the FWC to refer general protections dismissal...
One of the most common misconceptions we hear from employers is, "We're paying well above the Award, so the employee's classification doesn't really matter." While paying above the minimum rate is certainly positive, it's important to remember that...
Most organisations invest in controls - payroll systems to reduce errors; safety procedures to minimise risk; policies to ensure compliance. Managers are trained on legislation and compliance to protect the business. But here's a question worth...
Employees aged 18, 19 or 20 working in the retail and fast-food industries may currently be paid a minimum award rate equivalent to 70%, 80% or 90% of the applicable adult minimum award rate. On 31 March 2026, the Fair Work Commission (FWC)...
Over the past few months, our team at Focus HR has seen a noticeable increase in enquiries relating to redundancies. Rising operating costs, changing market conditions, reduced workloads and business restructures are leading many employers to...
Fair Work’s Annual National Minimum Wage Review decision has now been released, with changes to minimum wages and award rates taking effect from the first full pay period on or after 1 July, 2025. This is also your annual reminder to double-check...
One recent case (Fair Work Ombudsman v Chatime Australia Pty Ltd (No 2) [2023]) serves as a reminder that those who make executive decisions that result in contraventions of minimum conditions may be held personally liable for such decisions. What...
A recent Fair Work Commission (FWC) case has seen an interesting twist regarding a flexible work dispute. In Kelly Foster v National Australia Bank [2025] FWC 959 (7 April 2025), FWC held that it has no power under the Fair Work Act's flexible work...
– Naomi Wilson, Founding Director Banning non-compete clauses for workers earning less than $175,000 is a misguided initiative. While I recognise the Federal Government’s efforts, as part of their budget announcement, to remove barriers causing...
At Focus HR, we believe in the power of leadership, innovation, and community to drive meaningful change. That's why we're proud to be a naming sponsor for the upcoming Legends at Their Game event, featuring the iconic Sir Bob Geldof. On Wednesday,...
As HR advisors, we often have conversations with managers about employees demonstrating inappropriate behaviours, however there is an underlying fear of taking action (especially termination) due to the risk of a Fair Work claim. Does that risk...
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