Category: Industrial & Employment Law
What’s causing the surge of unfair dismissal claims?
In May 2020, Fair Work Commission President, Justice Iain Ross AO revealed that unfair dismissal claims have increased by 60% in April 2020 as compared to April 2019. In this article, we identify three potential factors contributing to the increased unfair dismissal claims.
Maritime Officer wins “reimbursement of revalidation expenses” originally rejected by employer
Another great win for Maritime Officers. This decision is a significant win for the Union and its members and provides clarity for members to access benefits of any additional obligations of the employer that may exist under the Agreement.
ETU members compensated to the tune of over $28,000 in enterprise agreement win
We recently represented the Electrical Trades Union in a dispute related to the interpretation of a clause in the Kentz Pty Ltd Ichthys Onshore Construction Greenfields Agreement. The clause related to the payment of licence allowances, in addition to the base hourly rate. The Federal Court found in favour of the ETU and its affected members.
Hall Payne secures win for maritime officers and marine engineers
Hall Payne secures a great win for members of the Australian Maritime Officers’ Union and the Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers in a recent appeal to a Full Bench of the Fair Work Commission related to rejection of the Enterprise Agreement.
Can my employer stand me down?
The current coronavirus pandemic, resulting in a significant loss of jobs and change to working conditions for many, has raised a number of questions related to employment law. In this article, we ask the question ‘Can my employer stand me down?’
The JobKeeper scheme: employee entitlements and employer responsibilities
Although the JobKeeper scheme has been widely heralded, there have also been a number of concerns raised; particularly in relation to potential unscrupulous behaviour by some employers.
Sacked for serious misconduct – summary dismissals
We've noticed a spike in employees being terminated ‘summarily’ or without notice, for alleged serious misconduct since the COVID-19 pandemic started. So, what is serious misconduct and why might there be a spike? What can you be instantly terminated for and can you challenge being sacked summarily?
Are you safe at work during the COVID-19 pandemic? WHS rights and entitlements
As coronavirus continues to play an increasing risk to all Australian workers, your employer must allow you to work from home wherever and whenever you can. This should include the modification of business practices where possible. Learn all about your WHS rights here.
Employment rights and obligations while working from home during COVID-19
During COVID-19, with it becoming increasingly common to work from home, it is important to consider the legal implications that may arise when moving from your office to your home office.
Sacked Sydney bus driver reinstated
Hall Payne recently obtained reinstatement for a Sydney bus driver and RTBU member who was sacked by the State Transit Authority (“STA”) for mobile phone use.
Underpayment of wages
With the increasing number of recent cases publicised regarding wage theft across various industries in Australia, it is important that all employees know their workplace rights and entitlements. This is particularly relevant to wage rights including any underpayment of wages.
Implications of Coronavirus for your Employment
A number of Australian workers are rightly questioning their workplace rights and entitlements if they, or their colleagues, contract Coronavirus (Covid-19).