When you make a role redundant, can you rely on the fact that there were simply no other jobs going? Not any more. Following the High Court’s 2025 decision in the Helensburgh Coal matter, “reasonable redeployment” under section 389 of the Fair Work Act now reaches beyond a list of vacant positions — in some cases it extends
Managing ill and injured employees is one of the highest-risk tasks any Australian employer faces. When a worker is injured or falls ill, several legal regimes switch on at once — and they don’t always agree. Get it right and you protect your people and your organisation. Get it wrong and one termination can trigger multiple claims. Here’s how to do it —
A well-run workplace investigation is one of the strongest risk-management tools an Australian employer has. Done properly, it gives you a defensible basis to act on misconduct. Done poorly, the investigation itself becomes the liability — often costing more than the original complaint. The difference comes down to process: right scope, procedural fairness, privilege considered early, and
Probation is not a legal safe zone. Ending employment during probation removes unfair dismissal exposure — but not a general protections claim, a discrimination complaint, or a breach of contract. Getting the fundamentals right keeps you out of trouble. What’s the real issue? Employers routinely confuse two very different things: A contractual probation period — a creature of contract
Probation Done Properly: What Employer Obligations Under the Fair Work Act Really Mean Read More »
The Fair Work Commission has overhauled how general protections claims are run, and the shift favours prepared employers. Representation is decided “on the papers” before conference; out-of-time applications are triaged before you are served; conciliation is a fast 60-minute, resolution-only session; and a new Early Dispute Resolution (EDR) pilot tests informal settlement calls soon after lodgement. The reforms reward preparation
As we step into 2026, Australian workplaces are facing one of the fastest periods of transformation in recent memory. From technological disruption to shifting workforce expectations and major legislative reform, employers must be more proactive than ever to stay compliant, competitive and people-centred. In today’s Harrison’s Webinar, Managing Director Claire Harrison unpacked the 12 most
HR & Workplace Relations Trends for 2026: What Employers Need To Know Read More »
At our 2025 End-of-Year event, we were privileged to host Christy Miller, Partner at Clayton Utz, who delivered a timely and engaging presentation titled “The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future (Also known as the 2025 Employment Law Updates).” The session provided essential updates and practical guidance for business leaders navigating the evolving landscape
2025 Employment Law Updates: Insights from Christy Miller, Partner at Clayton Utz Read More »
In today’s competitive workplace, retaining great people and building a thriving culture isn’t just about salary—it’s about making employees feel valued, seen, and appreciated. Recognition is one of the most powerful drivers of engagement, loyalty, and performance, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, the most meaningful gestures are often simple, authentic,
Reward & Recognition for Under $50: Meaningful Engagement That Doesn’t Break the Bank Read More »
From 1 July 2024, several significant changes impacting employers in Australia will come into effect. These changes, stemming from the Fair Work Commission’s annual wage review and various legislative updates, will influence wages, superannuation, independent contractor rights, unfair dismissal compensation, delegates’ rights, and the handling of casual employment. Understanding and preparing for these changes is
Changes for Australian Employers from 1 July 2024: Key Updates and Practical Tips Read More »
The recent release of the Australian Federal Budget brings several key changes and initiatives that will impact businesses and employers across the country. Harrisons, as your HR business partner, are here to help you navigate these changes and optimise your operations in light of the new budget. Key Impacts on Employers: Job Creation and Skills
Advice for Australian Employers on the New Federal Budget Read More »
In a significant step towards reinforcing workplace fairness, the Australian Government announced the ‘Closing Loopholes’ initiative, building on the initial legislative amendments introduced in December 2023. This recent development aims to address gaps within the current framework, ensuring a more equitable work environment for all. As these changes unfold, it’s imperative for employers and employees
Closing Loopholes: Additional Fair Work Act Changes Read More »
The landscape of Human Resources is constantly evolving, and 2023 has been a pivotal year in shaping future trends. As we look towards 2024, it’s essential for HR managers, leaders, executives, company directors, and SME business owners to not only understand these trends but also strategise effectively to leverage them. This article explores the top
MAXIMISING 2023 HR TRENDS: STRATEGIES FOR BUSINESSES IN 2024 Read More »
In hard economic times, businesses often face the challenging decision of restructuring and downsizing. While this decision is primarily driven by financial imperatives, the method by which it is executed can have profound implications on a company’s people, culture, and overall workplace environment. The process of restructuring and redundancy should not only focus on balance
Navigating Restructuring & Downsizing: A Human-Centric Approach in Tough Economic Times Read More »