Don’t Get Caught Out: What Employers Need to Know About the ATO’s Expanded Use of STP Phase 2 Data
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is using data from Single Touch Payroll (STP) Phase 2 to scrutinise superannuation guarantee (SG) contributions more closely than ever before. This increased visibility allows the ATO to monitor SG payments in real-time and identify non-compliance with greater precision. Key Takeaways: The expanded use of STP Phase 2 data means […]
Personal Leave vs. Annual Leave in Australia
When managing employees, understanding the difference between personal leave and annual leave is crucial for both employers and employees. In Australia, these two types of leave serve different purposes and are governed by specific regulations under the Fair Work Act 2009. This article will explore personal leave vs. annual leave, their distinct features, entitlements, and […]
Understanding the Recent Changes to Fixed-Term Contracts
Fixed term contracts, as opposed to permanent contracts, are those which expire after or at a specific time. An example of a fixed term contract includes where an employee is hired in a full-time position for 6 months to cover a permanent employee on parental leave, after which their employment with the organisation will cease. […]
FWO Urges Compliance with Closing Loopholes Bill
On 15 January 2024, the Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth stressed the need for employers and employees to educate themselves on the new Closing Loopholes laws to ensure they are compliant. Most of the changes introduced started on 15 December 2023, while others will commence between now and 2025, giving employers time to get their […]
Casual Conversion
On 26 March 2021, sections of the Fair Work Act relating to the rights of casual employees were amended. These amendments will impose several new obligations on employers in respect of casual employees, including the obligation to make a casual conversion offer. Casual Employment Information Statement As set out in these amendments, employers are now […]
COVID-19 Vaccinations and the Workplace
As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout begins in Australia, many employers and employees have questions regarding their legal rights and obligations when it comes to the vaccine and the workplace. Are employee’s legally required to get the vaccine? Can employers make it mandatory for their workers to get the vaccine? What happens if an employee refuses […]
Single Touch Payroll (STP) Phase 2 Delayed to 1 January 2022
Start of Single Touch Payroll (STP) Phase 2 Delayed to 1 January 2022 The ATO announced in a legislative instrument that the start of Single Touch Payroll (STP) Phase 2 – originally intended to begin on 1 July 2021, a date established before the Covid-19 pandemic – would be delayed to 1 January 2022. The announcement […]
3 Examples of Fair Work Non-Compliance to Watch Out For in 2021
Every business owner knows that complying with the Australian Fair Work system is vital to their success. However, many business owners, either on purpose or due to a genuine misunderstanding, still fail to meet the requirements of the Fair Work Act 2009. These offences range from the underpayment of staff to the exploitation of migrant workers, […]
Understanding Franchisor Responsibilities in Australia
In recent years, there has been a number of workplace law amendments that affect franchisors. These amendments greatly influence the way in which a franchisor is legally liable for the actions of a franchisee. They serve as a guideline to help the Fair Work Ombudsman determine whether a franchisor is legally liable or not. If […]
JobKeeper 2.0: Who are Legacy Employers and What Can They Do?
With the extension of JobKeeper taking effect from 28 September through to March 2021, it’s important that employers are up to date with the latest eligibility requirements. For some employers, they may no longer be eligible for the JobKeeper payment scheme from September 28 onwards. However, depending on their circumstances, they may still be able […]
