Costs ruling could reduce "appetite" for funded class actions
In a landmark decision, the Federal Court has ruled that the funder of two class actions could potentially face a costs order if it loses, and must provide security upfront. » more »
Contract, casual & contingent work (146 items)
Government appeal on personal leave; Dismissal fair despite flaw; and more
The Federal Government is appealing last month's ruling on personal leave entitlements, which if left unaddressed could cost employers up to $2 billion a year. Also in this article, a dismissal upheld despite its flaws; manager capabilities ranked by industry; and more. » more »
FWC considers "soft control" in new gig worker claim
The "soft control" an organisation has over gig workers is an important factor in determining whether an employment relationship or true independent contracting exists, the Fair Work Commission has highlighted. » more »
Low fines ordered for sham contracting that wasn't 'malicious'
An employer didn't act maliciously when it breached sham contracting laws, the Federal Circuit Court has taken into account in ordering low penalties. » more »
High-paid workers "trying it on" with double-dipping claims
An urgent fix is required for the "broken" system that is enabling increasing numbers of high-paid workers to pursue double-dipping claims, employer association leaders say. » more »
Changing work structures 'fissuring' employment relationships
Changing business structures are 'fissuring' workplaces, effectively breaking employment relationships to workers' detriment, according to an international labour market expert. » more »
Casuals claiming $12m in class action; Discrimination now top reason for pay gap
A union has launched a class action on behalf of long-term casuals, seeking annual leave entitlements estimated at $12 million. Also in this article: discrimination accounts for a growing proportion of reasons behind the gender pay gap. » more »
Unfair dismissal defence thwarted by "clear case" of sham contracting
An employer's attempt to defend an unfair dismissal claim on the grounds an employee was a contractor has backfired, with the FWC finding "a clear case of sham contracting", and ordering further investigation into staff with similar arrangements. » more »
Casuals and contingent employment update: Watch on demand with premium membership
Find out more about what's covered in this HR Daily Premium webcast. » more »
Double maternity leave at half pay not counted towards service; Gig workers happier; and more
An employee who spread 16 weeks of maternity leave pay over 32 weeks has failed to convince a court that the extra 16 weeks should also count towards her service. Also in this article: recent dismissal rulings; Australia and New Zealand's best employers; and why gig workers have better mental health than the rest of the working population. » more »
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Ill and injured employees update
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