By NSW Industrial Relations Industrial legislation compliance

Website Migration and Enhanced Tools

One of the biggest projects for NSW IR this year has been the migration of their website, which is set to go live by the end of 2024. This update promises improved navigation and enhanced tools, giving employers easier access to the resources and guidance needed to manage industrial relations matters. Be sure to keep an eye out for the updated links and tools as they roll out in 2025.

 

Long Service Leave Digital Credential: A Success for Employers

This year, NSW IR celebrated the achievement of 608 individuals who successfully completed the Long Service Leave Digital Credential. This initiative helps businesses understand and manage long service leave entitlements efficiently. As an employer, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with these credentials, and you can expect an updated version in 2025 to further streamline the process for your business.

 

Compliance and Entitlement Recovery: A Strong Focus

The State Compliance Team has been hard at work addressing underpayments and non-payments of entitlements. This year, they handled 309 complaints and recovered over $1 million in unpaid entitlements, most of which were related to long service leave. For employers, this underscores the importance of ensuring that all entitlements are correctly calculated and paid to avoid potential penalties and reputational damage.

 

Supporting Employers Through Enquiries

NSW IR’s team has been busy responding to employer queries. This year, the team answered over 5,000 telephone calls and 1,000 web enquiries. This high volume of enquiries reflects the ongoing need for expert advice as businesses navigate industrial relations issues. Employers are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to ensure compliance and to address any concerns about entitlements or workplace regulations.

 

Strategic Investigations and High-Profile Recoveries

The Strategic Investigation Team has also been instrumental in high-profile cases, including the recovery of over $1.6 million in long service leave entitlements for Coles. This recovery, widely reported in the media, highlights the increasing scrutiny of compliance in major companies and serves as a reminder for employers to stay proactive in ensuring their workplace practices align with the law.

 

Navigating the Long Service Leave Act: What Employers Need to Know

The Long Service Leave Act 1955 continues to be a complex area for many employers. NSW IR is committed to helping businesses understand the intricacies of this legislation and avoid the pitfalls of non-compliance. Through partnerships with organisations like My Business, NSW IR is actively working to raise awareness and provide guidance to businesses on how to navigate these complexities. As an employer, it’s vital to ensure your business is compliant with the Long Service Leave Act to avoid costly penalties and ensure fairness in your workplace.

 

Looking Ahead: Continued Support for Employers

NSW IR’s ongoing work to improve compliance, support employers, and educate the workforce reflects a strong commitment to maintaining a fair and efficient industrial relations system in New South Wales. As an employer, staying informed and up-to-date with the latest resources and legislation is crucial to the smooth operation of your business.

 

For more information and resources, visit the NSW Industrial Relations website.