By Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network (QAWN)
A series of free, half-day seminars are being held around Queensland to help agricultural businesses achieve Fair Work compliance, better manage employment risks, and adopt a best management approach.
A recent increase in funding and activity by the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) means that employers are more likely than ever to be inspected or audited. Industry supports the targeted campaigns that will expose those who chose non-compliance. Recent high profile prosecutions have resulted in large fines, enforceable undertakings, and unfavourable media exposure. It is vital that we, as an industry, get it right.
To help agriculture employers to do the right thing, a series of Workplace Essentials workshops are being held in major agricultural regions, with agriculture industrial relations specialist Donna Mogg sharing her expertise.
Ms Mogg has worked with farmers for the past 10 years around employment and workplace relations. She has a strong reputation for delivering professional and practical advice, information, and resources to support farmers all over Queensland with managing their employment obligations.
“Agribusiness employers and human resources personnel from all agriculture sectors are invited to attend. At the end of these seminars you will leave with a clear understanding of your obligations under the Fair Work laws, improved awareness of where the gaps are in your policies and practices, and resources to help you address those gaps,” Ms Mogg said.
“Managing your employees is all part of managing your business. It is really important that you get this right. If you attend one seminar this year, make it this one.
“The prosecutions, the fines, the media and all those things that come when you don’t get these things right are not only time consuming but can be very expensive and damage the reputation of your business.
Using a “Best Management Practice” approach, seminar participants at these free, half-day seminars will:
- get a better understanding of legal obligations under the Fair Work Act, National Employment Standards and relevant Award/s
- undertake a risk assessment activity to “stress test” compliance with Fair Work requirements and identify where risks lie
- discuss and work through how to manage tricky issues such as poor performance/conduct, disputes, or termination of employment
- learn how to deal with labour hire contractors and avoid claims against your business
A workbook with useful information and links to industry relevant best practice resources will also be provided to help you with compliance and establish positive practices in the workplace.
Secure your seat today and register online: www.growcom.com.au/wes
- Lockyer Valley– Wednesday 5 October
- Mareeba– Wednesday 12 October
- South Johnstone– Thursday 13 October
- Bundaberg– Thursday 27 October
- Bowen– Wednesday 9 November
- Charters Towers– Friday 11 November
- Gympie– Thursday 17 November
- Glass House Mountains– Friday 18 November
- Mackay– Wednesday 8 February
- Yeppoon– Tuesday 14 February
- Emerald– Wednesday 15 February
- St George– Wednesday 1 March
- Kingaroy– Wednesday 15 March
The QAWN Workplace Essentials Seminars 2016/17 are supported by the Rural Jobs and Skills Alliance, funded by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) and sponsored by AustSafe Super.