Archive for May 2021
Understanding the differences between employees and independent contractors
Over the past decade, the ‘gig economy’ has fundamentally reshaped large sections of the economy, from professional services to transport, postal and warehousing. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported that as of August 2020, there were approximately 1.02 million independent contractors in Australia. While for many years the construction industry has held by far…
Read MoreDoctor, doctor: When and how employers can challenge medical evidence
Employees with medical conditions can present unique challenges for employers. While businesses should, and often do, seek to provide equal opportunity for all, there are some cases where this is simply not possible. It is an unfortunate truth, however, that sometimes the provision of a medical certificate is seen as a “get out of jail…
Read MoreDue diligence for employee entitlements during sales of business
When it comes to buying or selling a business, there is no shortage of matters requiring your attention. From negotiations about the purchase price or stock-in-trade, making and receiving representations, or understanding whether there are any hidden liabilities, all of these are essential components that make up a sale. However, one of the most commonly…
Read MoreStorms on the horizon as unions threaten distribution and delivery
The union movement has put major retail brands on notice of supply chain disruptions as part of the wider effort to secure more advantageous working conditions for transport workers. In a speech to the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) National Council in Darwin last week, TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine warned of a “winter of discontent,…
Read More