Fair Work Act 2009 and its Impact on Human Resource Management

Running Head: Human Resource Management
HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

2
Human Resource Management
Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................3
Discussion..................................................................................................................................3
Conclusion..................................................................................................................................5
Reference list..............................................................................................................................6

3
Human Resource Management
Introduction
The Australian government has taken initiative to protect basic rights of both employees and
employers. Development and introduction of the Fair Work Act 2009 are helping in
developing good industrial relations. This study is focusing on developing a clear
understanding of the Fair Work Act 2009 and its impact on human resource management.
Discussion
Australia's workplace is governed by this act and it is considered as the primary piece of
legislation. This act is the foundation of all regulations and standards regarding employment.
These rules and regulations need to be maintained by all employers of all industries in
Australia. Main aim of this act is to provide a safe work environment and enforceable
minimum terms and conditions (Lawhandbook.sa.gov.au, 2018). These provisions and
guidelines are enforced through national employment standards, national minimum wage
orders, and modern awards. In subsection 55(5), minimum standards that are to be
provided to an employee is provided. Minimum standards include parameters like maximum
working hours in a week, flexibility in working arrangements and parental leave. 38 hours
each week and other additional hours are included in basic standards. Paternal unpaid leave
can be provided up to 12 months for each employee. Moreover, unpaid leave for community
service and leave policy on public holidays are also included in this part. According to
division 10 of NES, an employee is entitled to paid leave on public holidays
(Legislation.gov.au, 2019).
Base rate of every employee is set under national minimum wage and it varies every year by
thorough revision. Fair work commission (FWC) reviews this part every year and under
section 617, it is mentioned that FWC must be formed by an expert panel. According to