As part of International Women’s Day 2023, we thought we’d launch the first of our 3 What Wednesdays. These are legal updates which will go out on Wednesdays so you can up your legal knowledge game. So, here we go!
What?
The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 became law as of 6 December 2022. It proposes a whole raft of sweeping changes to workplaces conditions, some of which are pretty important for women in the workforce.
So What?
1. Employees now have a right to choose whether or not to disclose their remuneration.
2. Employers now have to follow a process where employees request flexible work arrangements including responding in 21 days. Employees can now bring a dispute to the Fair Work Commission if an employer does not follow the new process.
3. Sexual harassment is now expressly prohibited in connection with work. Employers will be held liable unless they can prove they have taken all reasonable steps to prevent the conduct.
Now What?
If you’re an employee, now would be a good time to read up on this and know your expanded rights. Alternatively, we’re here to help if you have any questions. As an employer, now would be a good time to review your standard employment contracts as well as your policies and procedures to make sure they continue to comply with these recent changes. Importantly, beyond your paper artefacts, employers need to ensure that the culture and work practices in the workplace are fostering an environment that is safe, respectful and recognises that all employers are people too.
Happy International Women’s Day 2023 from your local corporate + commercial lawyers!
