Insights
New Rules For Fixed Term Contracts
From 6 December 2023, employers must give employees they’re engaging on new fixed term contracts a Fixed Term Contract Information Statement (FTCIS).
The 7 Most Frequent HR Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
In the fast-paced world of HR management, avoid the most frequent pitfalls that can cost your business dearly. Learn how to keep your employee handbook up-to-date, document performance issues effectively, and manage employee data with precision. Dive into this article to ensure compliance and protect your company from legal challenges.
Unfair Dismissal V. Adverse Action
Unfair dismissal or adverse action? Understanding the choice employees make and the implications for employers is vital. Explore the distinct statutory requirements, remedies, and legal processes that govern these claims. Whether you're facing employee termination or seeking to safeguard your organization, our blog sheds light on the essential considerations. Dive…
What You Need To Know About The New Paid Parental Leave Changes
Explore the recent adjustments to Paid Parental Leave that affect both employers and employees. From eligibility criteria to notice requirements and the changing role of employers, this article provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of parental leave benefits.
Why Does Employee Financial Wellness Matter At Work?
Employee financial wellness is more than just balancing the budget; it's a key factor affecting job performance and personal well-being. In this article, we delve into the definition of financial wellness, why it matters to employees and employers alike, and strategies for businesses to create a loyal and engaged workforce…
A Timely Reminder About The Importance Of Keeping Records
Discover the eye-opening case against the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and why maintaining precise employee records is crucial for Australian employers. Inadequate practices can result in hefty penalties. Learn your obligations to ensure transparency in employment practices and safeguard employee rights. Discover how Australian workplace safety legislation has…
Common Psychosocial Hazards & How To Combat Them
Discover how Australian workplace safety legislation has evolved to prioritize psychological well-being. Learn about common psychosocial hazards and effective strategies for fostering a safer, more supportive workplace environment. Discover how Australian workplace safety legislation has evolved to prioritize psychological well-being. Learn about common psychosocial hazards and effective strategies for fostering…
Are you ready for the new Positive Duty on employers to eliminate sexual harassment?
Get ready for the significant changes in workplace regulations as the Positive Duty for employers to eliminate sexual harassment takes center stage. This article highlights the introduction of this duty, increased powers of the Australian Human Rights Commission, and the essential guidelines and standards to ensure compliance and foster a…
Psychosocial Hazards & Business
In Australia, psychosocial safety in the workplace is gaining prominence, with legislation addressing these issues becoming a focal point for employers. This blog article explores the growing importance of psychosocial safety laws, the definition of psychosocial hazards and risks, and the numerous benefits of addressing them. It also provides practical…
Akyra’s Executive Lunch: A Day of Insights and Inspiration
Step inside the world of Akyra's Executive Lunch, a remarkable event held on September 8, 2023, where appreciation met inspiration. This blog article unfolds the captivating fireside chat between Jacqueline Nagle and Jeanette Jifkins, offering profound insights on leadership, business growth, and personal values.
Fair Work Information Statements & New Employees
Uncover the key requirements for Fair Work Information Statements (FWIS), CEIS, and FTCIS compliance under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). Explore when and how to provide these statements to new employees and the potential penalties for non-compliance. Dive into real cases that shed light on the significance of meeting…
Can You Deduct From Employee Wages?
Discover the intricacies of employee wage deductions and compliance with the Fair Work Act. Explore reasonable deduction scenarios, authorised instances, and legal considerations for employers. Navigate the landscape of wage deductions responsibly and in line with relevant regulations.
Avoiding Costly Underpayments & Payroll Issues
Explore the far-reaching implications of staff underpayment, grasp the root causes behind these errors, and adopt proactive measures to shield your business from financial penalties and reputational harm.
Confusion about the Role of a Support Person
Explore the role of support persons in workplace meetings about performance and behavior. Learn their responsibilities, employer duties, and how to choose the right person. Strike the balance between emotional support and fairness for a smooth process.
New Entitlements for Employees returning from Parental Leave
Discover the latest improvements to unpaid parental leave regulations that came into effect on June 30, 2023. Explore the enhanced flexibility for employees, with up to 100 days of flexible unpaid parental leave. Learn about extension requests, fair treatment, and the emphasis on fostering a respectful workplace culture. Stay informed…
Key Steps For Employers To Mitigate Against Sexual Harassment Claims
In today's evolving workplace landscape, addressing and preventing sexual harassment claims is of paramount importance for employers. Embracing a proactive approach, employers must be ready to adapt to the amended framework, viewing it as an opportunity for preventative action rather than just reactive measures. By fostering a work environment built…
Reform To The Sexual Harassment Framework
Between September 2021 and December 2022, Australia witnessed a transformative shift in its sexual framework through the enactment of three pivotal federal legislations. These legislations brought about new obligations for employers and extended protections for workers. Employers are now tasked with a positive duty to take reasonable measures to eliminate…
What Are The Rules Around Personal Leave?
As employers, we’re often less than impressed with the notice given by employees when they are unwell. We’ll explore what’s required for employees to access their personal leave entitlements and some of the issues employers face when asking for evidence to support the claim for personal leave. How do you…
What to Do When Your Employee Claims They Have Been Underpaid
While we all do our best when calculating wages and entitlements for our employees, it’s complicated! So what do you do when you receive an email from one of your employees making an underpayment claim?
Engaging Remote Employees: Adapting Your Approach to the Hybrid Workplace
The rise of remote and hybrid workplaces means business owners are faced with the challenge of maintaining their culture and managing performance. It is important for employers to adapt their business strategies while not losing site of employee engagement levels.
Employment Law Compliance: The Role of HR Management Services
Navigating employment laws while juggling business responsibilities can be a daunting task for any company. Non-compliance with employment laws is a ticking time bomb that can disrupt your business at any moment. Leverage the expertise of HR Management Services to defuse this threat, minimising your risk and letting you operate…
Understanding the Impact of the Minimum Wage Increase on Employers
As the minimum wage increases, employers face a myriad of challenges and considerations that can significantly impact their operations. From budgeting and cost management to employee morale and retention, the ripple effects of a wage hike are far-reaching.
Addressing Employee Burnout: The Role of Engagement Surveys in Prevention & Intervention
Employee burnout has become a critical concern for many organisations, particularly in the current climate of high-stress work environment. When employees are burnt out, they are more likely to make mistakes, miss deadlines and become disengaged from their work.
5 Reasons to Outsource Human Resources
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
New Australian Privacy Laws and What They Mean for Your Business
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
How to Cultivate a Connected Workforce: The Power of Effective HR Strategies
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Understanding Genuine Redundancies in Australia
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Roster Reboot: Recent Court Ruling Changes Rostering for Public Holidays
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Navigating New Psychosocial Health and Safety Regulations in Australia
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
New Shutdown Rules for 78 Modern Awards: What Australian Employers Need to Know
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Pay Secrecy – How to Manage Conversations
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
New Paid Parental Leave Legislation: What Employers Need to Know
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Annualised Salary Changes and Increases: What Employers Need to Know
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Australian Wage Theft Laws: What Employers Need to Know
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
The Cost of Misaligned Values: Three Million Dollar Mistake
Employers often seek external HR providers to assist in the management their workforce. However, if the provider's values do not align with the employer's values, it can have disastrous consequences.
Your 2023 HR Checklist: Stay Ahead of the Changes
With many major changes to industrial relations and employment law over the past few months, it’s incredibly important for you and your business to ensure you have a clear understanding of new legislation – and that any affected policies, procedures or contracts are updated accordingly.
The Big Shift: 59% of Australians Planning Job Change in 2023
Are you ready for the biggest shift in the Australian job market this year? According to a recent LinkedIn survey, 3 in 5 Australians are considering quitting their current job in 2023.
Is your business ready for a surprise visit from the Fair Work Ombudsman?
A recent string of surprise visits by the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) to a number of farms and labour hire companies throughout Victoria highlights the need for businesses to ensure they are strictly complying with their obligations to employees, including the correct payment of wages.
Announcing Akyra’s 2023 Charity of Choice
At Akyra, we strongly believe in the importance of giving back to the community. That’s why each year, our team collectively chooses a charity partner to whom we donate 1% of our monthly turnover. As we begin the new year, we’re very excited to announce our new 2023 charity of…
Pay secrecy now prohibited under the Fair Work Act
With recent changes to the Fair Work Act that came into effect on 7 December 2022, Australian employers can no longer prohibit employees from disclosing their pay and workplace conditions to others.
Understanding modern awards: common questions and answers for employers
In this week’s Akyra blog, we provide an explainer on Modern Awards - and clear up some common misconceptions amongst employers.
Australian Government introduces paid family and domestic violence leave
For those who are not already aware, the Australian Government recently passed legislation to amend the Fair Work Act and introduce paid family and domestic violence leave for all Australian workers.
Sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace: new legislation means new obligations for employers
With the recent passage of the Respect at Work Bill, all Australian employers now have a positive duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. This means employers are now obligated to proactively prevent harassment and discrimination – rather than merely reacting to it.
Employee surveys and the dangers of ignoring feedback
As we examined in a previous Akyra blog, employee surveys (e.g. Akyra’s HR SnapShot) can provide valuable insights into the experiences, needs and concerns of employees. This week, we take a look at the potential costs and consequences of ignoring employee feedback from survey findings and discuss the importance of…
Value and Benefits of Employee Engagement Surveys
An employee engagement survey is an organisational tool that seeks to measure whether your employees are engaged in their work. Not only this, but it acts as an invitation for your employees to share their pain points anonymously and provides management with information they may not have been aware of.
Shutdown Periods: What You Need To Know
Closing over the Christmas/New Year Shutdown Period? The team at Akyra has compiled a helpful guide to assist you in meeting your obligations when it comes to public holidays, annual leave, and overtime.
What are stay interviews and how can they improve employee retention?
Over the past year, we’ve seen a major focus on fears of the Great Resignation and quiet quitting, driven by concerns over employee retention and engagement. So what tools can employers utilise to improve employee retention and engagement? Stay interviews are conversations between employers and current employees which aim to…
HR Considerations for Your Annual Christmas Party
As an employer, you have an obligation to ensure the safety of employees in the workplace – and it’s critical to remember this obligation also extends to work-related functions - such as the Christmas or end-of-year party. We’ve compiled a list of some key considerations to take into account when…
Congratulations to Moreton Bay’s Employee of the Year
The team at Akyra extend our warmest congratulations to Tracy Johnson from SRJ Walker Wayland on winning the Akyra Strategy & Development Employee of the Year award at the recent 2022 Moreton Bay Business & Innovation Awards!
Top HR strategies for the end of the year
As an employer, what should you be doing to set up your business and workforce for a successful new year? We’ve compiled a list of some top HR strategies to consider as we approach the end of 2022 and look ahead to the new year.
Why having a best friend at work is important
Many of us probably understand that having positive relationships and friendships in the workplace can provide much needed social and emotional support – something that has become even more important due to the stress and isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cyber awareness month: is your business an easy target?
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month and, with recent data breach outbreaks where many organisations are scrambling to protect customers’ data, Akyra reached out to Emma Croston, our expert in digital innovation and technology.
Important updates on COVID-19 and the workplace
As of October 14, several major changes have come into effect relating to COVID-19 and the workplace. Including the end of mandatory isolation periods for those who test positive to COVID-19 (with some exceptions), and the end of Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments (with some exceptions).
How employers can manage workplace bullies
Bullying in the workplace is a serious problem, which can have a negative impact on workplace morale, productivity and employee wellbeing. For employers, managing workplace bullying can be a difficult challenge to navigate, but there are strategies which can help to mitigate and address this.
Akyra’s second annual Executive Lunch
Last month, Akyra was thrilled to host its second annual Executive Lunch at the Bougainvillea House at Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane. The Akyra Executive Lunch is a great chance for us to say thank you to our clients and this year, we were fortunate enough to be joined by…
What exactly is quiet quitting?
You may have recently come across the term ‘quiet quitting’, which refers to when an employee does the absolute minimum at work in order to keep their job. While a range of factors can cause a worker to become a ‘quiet quitter’, the problem is actually one of employee disengagement…
Top 3 benefits that employees want
A recent study on online searches for workplace benefits has revealed some interesting findings on the top trending employee benefits over the past five years, providing key insights into what workers want.
Long-term personal leave & workplace impacts
One of the questions Akyra is asked quite often relates to how to manage employees with ongoing illnesses who take extended periods of personal leave. So, what rights do employees have in relation to extended personal leave? And how should you as an employer navigate and manage these issues?
Current Priorities for the Fair Work Ombudsman
Earlier this year, Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) Sandra Parker announced the FWO’s key priorities for 2022-23. Looking ahead, the FWO will continue to focus on supporting workers and businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as investigating and enforcing employer compliance in relation to wage entitlements and obligations to…
Sexual harassment and the positive duty to prevent
A recent investigation into sexual harassment in the workplace and positive duty compliance by employers highlights that many businesses may need to be more proactive in creating an environment that is more likely to actively discourage sexual harassment in the workplace.
Can an employee be fired for texting in the workplace?
When personal texting in the workplace becomes excessive, this can have a major impact on productivity. So when can texting in the workplace cross the line? And how should employers handle these situations?
What employers should know about issuing written warnings
When it comes to performance management, issuing a written warning to an employee can be a challenging step for employers. It can sometimes be difficult to know when an employee’s performance and/or conduct warrants this type of disciplinary action, and a lack of clarity or fairness within a written warning…
Can You Extend an Employee’s Probation?
As recent cases have demonstrated, employers can land themselves in hot water by extending an employee’s probation and then dismissing them. So when can a probation be extended? And when is this a wise decision?
The Value of Pre-Employment Screening Documents
Quick hiring processes can sometimes overlook key aspects of an applicant’s background, including a criminal history - leading to difficult situations for employers. So, what can you do if this type of information is discovered after an offer of employment has already been made? And how can these types of…
Update from the Fair Work Commission on Unpaid Pandemic Leave
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has now decided to reinstate unpaid pandemic leave for employees covered under a limited number of Modern Awards. This means that if an employee falls under one of these Awards and meet certain eligibility requirements, they are now entitled to two-weeks of unpaid pandemic leave.…
Employment law checklist: is your business up-to-date?
With the new financial year already underway, now is a good time for businesses to ensure they are fully compliant with various practices and procedures relating to employment law. We’ve compiled a checklist outlining some key areas of employment law (including the minimum wage, superannuation and record keeping) to make…
The value of workplace recognition
In the workplace, we all love to know that our achievements and contributions are recognised and valued. Yet despite the clear benefits of workplace recognition, 81% of businesses say this is not something that is a priority. In the latest Akyra blog, we look at the value of workplace recognition…
No Talk Day encourages us to talk about mental health
With today being No Talk Day, we thought it was important to share some tips from Beyond Blue on how to start a conversation about mental health. In the latest Akyra blog, we outline these tips on how you can ask, listen and support someone who may be suffering from…
Why employers should care about the financial wellbeing of their workforce
As we restart the clock for the new financial year, it’s common for individuals and households to be looking at their finances and budgets, and forecasting for the year ahead. Almost three years on since the start of the worldwide pandemic, for many, thoughts of finances and budgets, has become […]
How To Help Improve The Financial Wellbeing Of Your Workforce
You’ve read why employers should care about the financial wellbeing of their workforce in our previous blog, and now you’re ready to act and take the next step? You’ve come to the right place.
What should you know about vicarious liability
When employees behave poorly in a work-related setting, there can be severe consequences for both the employer and the worker – e.g. dismissal for the employee and/or reputational damage for the employer. However, under the concept of vicarious liability, as an employer, you may also face consequences due to the…
When employee opinions clash with company values
As several high-profile cases have shown in recent times, employees expressing opinions which clash with the values of their employer and/or company can lead to strained relationships, termination, and unfair dismissal claims. So, when can these opinions cause problems in the workplace? And how should employers approach these types of…
When is a resignation ‘forced’?
While most resignations are voluntarily, in some cases an employee may feel they are forced to resign due to the conduct or actions of their employer. These scenarios can be very challenging for workers and can also lead to unfair dismissal claims against their employer.
Unpacking the new Government’s industrial relations agenda
Under a new Labor Government, Australian employers can expect a range of reforms to workplace law, with a particular focus on issues like job security, gender pay equity and wage theft.
Akyra sponsors Employee of the Year at 2022 Business Excellence & Innovation Awards
For more than 15 years, Akyra has been working with businesses to create ‘Employers of Choice’. It’s only fitting that when given the opportunity, we celebrate and recognise the ‘Employees of Choice’, of Moreton Bay, for their extraordinary professional achievements and contributions to their workplace. Akyra is proud to be an award […]
The importance of understanding your pay requirements
A recent study on online searches for workplace benefits has revealed some interesting findings on the top trending employee benefits over the past five years, providing key insights into what workers want.
Working parents and discrimination in the workplace
Balancing work and family responsibility can be challenging at the best of times. And despite legal protections and rights, many working mums and dads still face discrimination and challenges in the workplace due to their parental responsibilities.
Navigating the challenges of personal (sick) leave
We all get sick, and employees have a legal right to take personal leave. With the exception of casuals, workers are entitled to paid personal leave when they can't work because of a personal illness or injury. This can include stress and pregnancy related illnesses. But what proof do workers…
COVID-19 – Can employers ask their workers to get tested?
With case numbers remaining high, it’s unsurprising that some employers and workers remain concerned about being exposed to the virus in the workplace. But what happens if an employee is exhibiting COVID symptoms and refuses to be tested?
Identifying your Company’s Core Values and Finding Your ‘True North’
While many companies will have a framework or list of core values which are said to drive the organisation – such as honesty, integrity, and accountability - this often doesn’t actually translate into day-to-day action or behaviour.
The Easter Break and Public Holiday Obligations
With the Easter-long weekend nearly upon us, now is a good time for employers to brush up on their obligations regarding their employees and public holidays.
Swearing in the Workplace – What’s Acceptable and What Isn’t?
Admit it, swearing in the workplace is something many of us have probably been guilty of at some point. However, in the wrong context, swearing at work can lead to disciplinary action or dismissal.
Federal Budget Provides Training Tax Boost for Small Businesses
The Federal Government announced its Budget on 29 March 2022. Among these measures is the new ‘Skills and Training Boost’, which will encourage small businesses to train new staff and upskill existing staff – helping them to be innovative and grow.
2022 changes to Superannuation
Did you know that another rise to superannuation is coming from 1st July? So, what does this change mean for businesses?
Personnel shortages and vaccine refusers: why a growing number of frustrated workers are resigning
While it may seem like the worst of the pandemic is behind us, the effects of COVID-19 continue to be felt in the workplace – causing a continuing headache for both workers and employers.
Beyond Blue announced as Akyra’s Charity Partner for 2022
Earlier this year, Akyra Strategy & Development (Akyra) made the decision that, as a company, 1% of its income would be donated to a charity partner.
Mental health and the need for ‘crucial conversations’ in the workplace
While we can do our best to foster positive and respectful workplace dynamics, there are always going to be difficult conversations and situations that arise. This might include delivering poor performance reviews to workers, problems relating to bullying and harassment, or having to let an employee go.
Dangers of Offensive Social Media Posts: Some Tips for Employers and Employees
In the digital age, it probably seems like a no-brainer that you shouldn’t post offensive content on social media – whether this relates to your workplace or not. However, this doesn’t seem to always be the case!
Unnecessary risk or ‘non-negotiable’ business practice?
While enabling employees to develop and enhance their skills might seem like a no-brainer, there are differing views on upskilling and its benefits – and some business leaders are skittish about the potential ‘waste’ of upskilling their employees, only to have them seek employment elsewhere.
Sexual Harassment and Respect in the Workplace: What Businesses Should be Aware Of
Fostering respect in the workplace is a crucial part of running a successful business. But this isn’t always as simple as it sounds! Building a respectful workplace culture can be hard work - and tackling the problem of sexual harassment at work is a key component of this.
Is your business due for an annual wage review?
Is your business keeping track of your annualised salary provisions and obligations? It might be time to conduct an annual salary review.
Are Employee Engagement Solutions high on your workplace resolutions for 2022?
If you haven’t already set your resolutions for 2022 and with only a few days left of January, now is the time to do so. Perhaps, you could have your sights set on increasing employee engagement, tackling strategies to retain your top talent, and increasing workplace outcomes?
Leave entitlements for employees required to quarantine or self-isolate
The Akyra team has been fielding several queries in relation to leave entitlements and what can be used if an employee is required to obtain a COVID test or quarantine.
Hospitality owners – are you paying your staff the right pay and entitlements?
The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) announced on December 9, 2021, that their team will be making surprise inspections to hospitality businesses throughout Brisbane including restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets.
Medical certificate subscriptions – are your employees obtaining a medical certificate without seeing a doctor?
Recently, Akyra was made aware of a medical certificate ‘subscription’, allowing employees to pay a fee to obtain medical certificates without seeing a doctor. Further investigation revealed that an employee can receive a medical certificate, for up to a week off work from a growing number of websites, after entering…
Mandatory vaccinations in the workplace: What do you need to consider
From 17 December 2021, many Queensland locations and businesses will be restricted to fully vaccinated customers, visitors and staff. Last week, Akyra’s Managing Director Margaret Goody joined a panel discussion at the Regional Development Australia (RDA) Moreton Bay Business and COVID breakfast, where leading experts discussed the most important considerations…
Shutting down or staying open this Christmas – helpful information to get it right for 2021/22
With Christmas just around the corner, you’re probably starting to think about shutting down your business operations over the Christmas and New Year period, or perhaps you’re heading into your busiest period of the year. Regardless of whether you’re shutting down or staying open, we’ve outlined some important information to…
How to avoid the “silly” season HR disasters at the annual Christmas party
It’s called the silly season for a reason, and as employers, many of us know all too well just how “silly” the annual Christmas party can get. Mixing alcohol, and an informal atmosphere tends to increase the risk of employees being injured or behaving inappropriately.
Akyra’s Top 5 Tips for recruiting in a candidate short market
Over the past few months, one of the most common questions our team has been asked, is “how do we find good staff”? Job mobility rates in Australia are at the lowest since 1972. This means people aren’t moving jobs if they don’t have to. But what does this mean…
Inaugural Akyra Executive Lunch presents Mike Tristram, CEO of Trisco Foods
Akyra Strategy and Development launched a brand-new initiative, the inaugural Akyra Executive Lunch, featuring s fireside chat with Mike Tristram, Chief Executive Officer of Trisco Foods.
6 key questions and workplace behaviours
Community intolerance and increased attention from legislators have thrust workplace behaviours that are bullying, discriminatory and harassment to top of the hit parade as an important issue for employers. Read on for the 6 key questions and workplace behaviours clients frequently ask Akyra.
Post-employment restraints of trade are enforceable
Well-drafted restraint of trade clauses in employment agreements are the only way employers can prevent former staff poaching their clients and staff.
Termination email can be challenged as unfair dismissal
In a decision announced in September 2021, the Fair Work Commission (FWC) accepted the unfair dismissal claim of an employee who exhibited “violent behaviour” in a conduct meeting because he claims he didn’t realise he’d been dismissed; allowing him to file the unfair dismissal claim outside the usual 21-day period.
Employee unauthorised absences – what can you do?
With numerous public holidays looming in the coming months and the Christmas holiday season fast approaching; many businesses may be faced with employees taking unauthorised absences the day before or after a public holiday. Akyra’s clients often ask what they can do if an employee takes unauthorised absences the day…
Did you know… Paying ‘over award’ does not exclude other award entitlements?
Many businesses believe that paying an employee above-award rates will satisfy the requirements of any Modern Award that applies.
Top 3 priorities to comply with Fair Work changes to casual employment by 27 September
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) brought in changes relating to casual employment which came into effect on 27 March 2021 and must be complied with by 27 September 2021, where your business employees more than 15 people.
Work from home…top 3 questions employers ask
Work from home is not a new concept but has been forced on many of our businesses and tested the flexibility of workplaces to accommodate WFH needs and productivity. Most Akyra clients have grappled with the questions and issues below.
Mental health risks in your business
It’s now well-recognised that work can be harmful to your mental health – stress, anxiety and depression loom large in public discourse. But while it’s easy to accept this is a workplace health and safety issue, it’s another thing altogether to identify specific risks and take effective action to prevent…
Medical appointments and personal leave… your business questions answered
In Akyra’s experience, many businesses question if an employer can insist an employee schedule their medical appointments outside work hours? Read on for more information.
Vexatious bullying & key steps to manage it
Workplace complaints, claims and issues are on the rise post-pandemic. Receiving a bullying complaint from an employee and working out what to do next is stressful enough... let alone when the bullying complaint is made vexatiously and without a legitimate reason?
Does reasonable management action need to be perfect?
Training and education for managers who manage people is integral to their professional development to mitigate a FWC claim. Here are ‘9 examples of reasonable management action’ for your consideration.
Superannuation to increase from 1 July 2021 – is your business prepared?
As you are aware, Superannuation contributions by employers will increase on 1 July 2021 from 9.5 percent of “Ordinary Time Earnings” (OTE) to 10 percent. This can be a little more complex to decipher than one would expect.
New financial year, new award wage increases
Now is the time to re-focus your team for success and review award changes effective from July 2021. The new financial year is upon us and, from July 2021, minimum wages will increase in most modern awards from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 July 2021.
Did you know… you must deduct garnishee orders; or you may be liable!
As an employer you may have experienced a judgment debtor court order known as a garnishee directed to your business for one of your employees. When this happens, you are obligated to make deductions from that employee’s wages and pay that amount directly to the third party as instalments in…
Don’t get caught out … recent Fair Work ruling demonstrates why you need to clearly distinguish employees from contractors
Failing to classify workers correctly as an employee or an independent contractor can land business owners in hot water and in breach of Fair Work(FW) laws.
NAB in Court in relation to potential wage underpayments
In what may be the largest underpayment case in Australian history, the National Australia Bank (NAB) will face legal action for alleged unpaid wages lodged by The Finance Sector Union (FSU) in the Federal Court. The outcome of this case could have ramifications for all employers who pay salaries where…
If position no longer redundant, can you withdraw the dismissal notice and withhold termination monies?
Redundancies were increasingly prevalent through the pandemic and are now on the rise as government subsidies wind down. What are some of the concerns and questions we hear from clients...
Horseplay in the workplace leads to $662,102 in damages. Is your business at risk of an incident or potential claim?
A certain amount of joking, skylarking and horseplay in the workplace is often harmless and lightens the atmosphere, keeping up the spirits of workers. However, when it goes too far and someone is injured, the consequences can be very serious and costly.
General Protections claims are on the rise post-pandemic… is your business at risk of a staggering compensation payout?
Increasing claims for general protections (adverse action) have been lodged with Fair Work; where there is found to be a case, the rulings impact business owners with huge fines awarded to employees.
Working from home – someone might be watching!
Tips on how to effectively manage your employees work from home arrangements and to avoid being liable.