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Fair Work Lessons-Avoiding Costly Compliance Mistakes

The MyCRA Lawyers case highlights non-compliance risks with Fair Work laws, even for businesses grounded in legal expertise. This case, involving unfair dismissal claims and covert workplace monitoring, serves as a wake-up call for small businesses.
The Fair Work Commission ruled against MyCRA Lawyers, determining that the legal assistant was an employee—not a contractor—and that the firm failed to follow procedural fairness in handling performance concerns. The firm’s covert surveillance practices raised additional privacy concerns, further undermining its position.
This case offers valuable lessons for employee classification, performance management, and workplace privacy. Small businesses can avoid similar pitfalls by implementing clear policies, ensuring compliance with privacy laws, and seeking expert advice on employment practices.

2025, The Year Small Businesses Redefine Resilience and Innovation

In 2025, small businesses will face opportunities and challenges shaped by economic, technological, and geopolitical shifts. Adaptability will be key for thriving in this dynamic landscape, from managing inflation and interest rates to leveraging AI and tackling supply chain volatility.

6 Tips to Help Harness the Power of Generative AI

Generative AI is revolutionising industries, and Australian small businesses have the chance to benefit. But how can you leverage AI to boost efficiency, improve decision-making, and drive growth? Our latest article outlines six essential tips to help you successfully implement AI. From identifying business opportunities to selecting the right partners and balancing risk, this guide offers actionable advice for trades, healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services. Start small and learn fast—discover how AI can transform your business today!

Spotting Dodgy Political Speak

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.

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.

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

Recent wage recoveries in Cairns have highlighted the increasing enforcement efforts of the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO). In August 2024, almost $30,000 in unpaid wages was recovered for 52 workers at local food outlets. This case serves as a wake-up call for small businesses to ensure compliance with workplace laws. Non-compliance, including underpayment and failure to pay penalties, can result in significant financial consequences. Regular audits, accurate record-keeping, and staying updated with Fair Work guidelines are essential steps to avoid breaches and safeguard your business from costly penalties and reputational damage. Compliance is key.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.