Compliance and Risk

02 Oct, 24

Spotting Dodgy Political Speak: Logic, Reasoning, and Critical Thinking in the Queensland Election

In the lead-up to the Queensland election, the political landscape buzzes with promises, bold claims, and sweeping statements. But how can you be sure what you hear is more than empty rhetoric? With dodgy political speak becoming more common, sharpening your critical thinking skills and spotting the logical fallacies that can mislead voters is vital. Phrases like "We have a plan" may sound reassuring, but without clear details, they often hide a lack of substance. In our latest blog, we break down the common tactics used to manipulate public opinion, from straw man fallacies to emotional appeals, and show you how to navigate the noise with logic and reason. We’ll teach you how to ask the right questions, demand evidence, and avoid falling for vague promises. Ready to vote smarter and make decisions based on facts? Click here to discover how critical thinking can help you cut through the clutter and make an informed choice in the upcoming Queensland election.

25 Sep, 24

Balancing Work and Life: Adapting to the Right to Disconnect

From 26 August 2024, the "Right to Disconnect" legislation introduces a significant change in employment law to ensure employees can disconnect from work-related contact outside their working hours. This change affects businesses of all sizes, particularly small businesses that must adapt to the new requirements to avoid penalties and maintain compliance.

16 Aug, 24

Balancing Work and Life: Adapting to the Right to Disconnect

The "Right to Disconnect" legislation, effective 26 August 2024, introduces new requirements to ensure employees can disconnect from work-related contact outside their designated hours. This significant change impacts small businesses, requiring them to adapt to avoid penalties and maintain compliance. The legislation allows employees to refuse after-hours work communication, with exceptions for emergencies or on-call duties. Small businesses should establish clear policies, update contracts, set expectations for different roles, and educate their teams about the new rules to navigate these changes. Compliance is crucial to avoid financial strain and reputational damage. This guide offers practical advice for small businesses across various industries to effectively implement the "Right to Disconnect" and maintain a healthy work environment. Unions now have the right to enter workplaces to assist health and safety representatives and ensure compliance, regardless of employee count. Union officials no longer need Fair Work Commission approval to visit your premises. Employers must understand that union membership for employees is voluntary, and no coercion is allowed. Discover how to manage these changes effectively, ensure smooth operations, and maintain a compliant workplace. Read the full article for detailed insights and practical tips.

14 Aug, 24

Closing the Loopholes: Understanding the Risks of Sham Contracting

The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024 introduces significant changes aimed at tightening regulations around sham contracting and extending protections to gig workers. For small businesses, understanding the differing definitions set by Fair Work and the ATO is crucial to avoid legal conflicts. The legislation broadens the definition of employer and employee to include ‘employee-like workers,’ granting gig workers rights such as minimum wage, penalty rates, and superannuation. This change means businesses must comply with these new requirements or face penalties. The article offers practical advice on reviewing contracts, implementing clear policies, and seeking legal advice to ensure compliance. By staying informed, both small businesses and gig workers can protect themselves under the new legal framework. Key points include: Unions now have the right to enter workplaces to assist health and safety representatives and ensure compliance, regardless of employee count. Union officials no longer need Fair Work Commission approval to visit your premises. Employers must understand that union membership for employees is voluntary, and no coercion is allowed. Discover how to manage these changes effectively, ensure smooth operations, and maintain a compliant workplace. Read the full article for detailed insights and practical tips.

13 Aug, 24

Empowering Your Workforce: Navigating New Protections Against Domestic Violence

The recent amendments to the Fair Work Act under the Closing the Loopholes legislation introduce vital protections for employees affected by family and domestic violence. These changes expand the general protections regime, prohibiting discrimination against employees facing such challenges. For small businesses, compliance is essential to avoid penalties and create a supportive workplace culture. This article explores the implications of these new laws, offering practical advice on updating policies, training staff, and implementing support mechanisms. By taking proactive steps, small businesses can foster an inclusive environment that upholds the well-being of all employees while ensuring adherence to the latest legal requirements. Key points include: Unions now have the right to enter workplaces to assist health and safety representatives and ensure compliance, regardless of employee count. Union officials no longer need Fair Work Commission approval to visit your premises. Employers must understand that union membership for employees is voluntary, and no coercion is allowed. Discover how to manage these changes effectively, ensure smooth operations, and maintain a compliant workplace. Read the full article for detailed insights and practical tips.

10 Aug, 24

Cairns Wage Recoveries: A Wake-Up Call for Small Businesses

Recent changes to the Fair Work Act have introduced significant amendments impacting union rights and workplace entry, particularly for small and family-owned businesses. This comprehensive guide breaks down these changes and provides actionable advice to help you stay compliant and protect your business. Key points include: Unions now have the right to enter workplaces to assist health and safety representatives and ensure compliance, regardless of employee count. Union officials no longer need Fair Work Commission approval to visit your premises. Employers must understand that union membership for employees is voluntary, and no coercion is allowed. Discover how to manage these changes effectively, ensure smooth operations, and maintain a compliant workplace. Read the full article for detailed insights and practical tips.

26 Jul, 24

Union Access and Your Business: A Guide for Small and Family-Owned Enterprises

20 May, 24

By Eric Allgood
Compliance and Risk, Finance, Governance, Strategy
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The Future Stability of Small Businesses Amidst the Cost of Living Crisis

Small businesses are struggling amidst the cost of living crisis, with insolvencies at record highs and inflation driving up costs. The Labour Government's budget offers temporary relief but fails to address root issues like high energy costs and rising interest rates. To ensure stability, more comprehensive support is needed. Government policies must balance the needs of workers and small business owners. Long-term solutions are essential for the sustainability of small businesses.

16 May, 24

By Eric Allgood
Compliance and Risk, Finance, Governance, Strategy
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2024-25 Budget: Will Small Businesses Truly Benefit?

The 2024-25 Australian Budget aims to support small businesses with initiatives like a $20,000 instant asset write-off, $3.5 billion in energy bill relief, and $25.3 million to improve payment times. However, the allocated funds per business are minimal, raising questions about their effectiveness. For instance, the digital adoption initiative provides just $6.91 per business annually. More comprehensive and sustained strategies are essential for meaningful support and long-term growth. Learn more about the budget's impact.

16 May, 24

By Eric Allgood
Compliance and Risk, Governance, Strategy
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2024-25 Budget: Will Disaster Relief and Preparedness Measures Help Small Businesses?

The 2024-25 Australian Budget allocates $236 million for disaster recovery, but is it enough? With Australia's natural disasters costing $18.2 billion annually, the per-business support amounts to just $25.65 per year. Other allocations, like the $1.4 billion for Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, offer $152.17 per small business annually. These figures highlight the need for more robust funding to ensure effective disaster preparedness and recovery for small businesses. Learn more about the budget’s impact and its shortcomings.