Amendments to the Fair Work Act

Important changes came into effect from 1 January 2013 in relation to the Fair Work Act. 

These changes include the renaming of Fair Work Australia as Fair Work Commission (“the Commission”).  Other changes include the following:

Unfair Dismissal

The time limit for lodging unfair dismissal applications increased from 14 to 21 days, for dismissals occurring from 1 January 2013.  

Also the Commission has been given additional powers to dismiss unfair dismissal applications and make cost orders against parties, lawyers and paid agents. 

General Protections

The time limit for lodging a general protections dismissal application was reduced from 60 to 21 days, for dismissals occurring from 1 January 2013.

This change standardises the time limit for lodging dismissal applications.

There continues to be a 6 year time limit on an application for a breach of a general protection where no dismissal results. 

Enterprise Agreements

Enterprise agreements cannot be made with a single employee and terms allowing employees to opt out of enterprise agreements are now prohibited. 

 

Anyone seeking advice about workplace laws should contact Nevett Ford Melbourne Lawyers on 03 9614 7111.