As Australia heads to the polls this Saturday 3 May, the Federal Coalition’s approach to industrial relations offers a more incremental vision compared to the sweeping reforms introduced by the Labor Government in recent years, including some rollback of initiatives put in place by the Albanese Government.
Here’s what to expect if the Coalition forms government.
A pro-business agenda
The Coalition’s approach revolves around what it describes as a “pro small business agenda,” aimed at delivering reduced government intervention and greater business freedom. Key initiatives include:
Re-defining casual employment
The Coalition proposes to simplify the definition of a “casual employee” under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). While specific details of the definition are yet to be confirmed, recent statements suggest a desire to return to a framework which prioritises the terms of the employment contract.
Addressing misconduct in the construction industry
The construction sector has long been a focal point of workplace reform debates. The Coalition has reaffirmed its commitment to combating organised crime and restoring accountability in the industry through several measures:
- Re-establishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC): The ABCC would regain its oversight role in the industry, a move the Labor Government reversed when it abolished the body.
- Introducing anti-racketeering laws: A new taskforce, led by the Australian Federal Police, would pursue criminal activity within the construction sector.
- Legislation to deregister the CFMEU: The Coalition has indicated its intent to deregister the CFMEU in response to allegations of widespread misconduct and criminal activity.
Repeal the employee right to disconnect
The Coalition proposes to repeal the right to disconnect laws that came into effect in August 2024. These laws are intended to protect employees who choose to ignore unreasonable attempts by their employer to contact them after hours.
Measures no longer on the agenda
In recent months, the Coalition has softened its stance on some controversial proposals, adopting more moderate positions on key policies such as public service reforms and labour hire rights:
Retention of “same job, same pay” laws
Earlier opposition to Labor’s “same job, same pay” laws has been tempered following research by the McKell Institute that these laws could provide an economic boost. The Coalition now states that these laws will remain in place.
Support for flexible work arrangements
Initial proposals to mandate an end to work-from-home arrangements in the public sector faced significant criticism. The Coalition has since reversed its stance, affirming its support for flexible working arrangements and acknowledging the benefit of preserving work-life balance for public servants.
A shift away from forced redundancies in the public sector
While previously advocating for forced redundancies to cut 41,000 public service jobs, the Coalition now aims to achieve reductions through a hiring freeze and natural attrition instead.
Employers, employees, and unions alike will need to closely monitor how these proposals evolve in practice. If you have any concerns or questions, the team at Emplawyer are ready to help.
