Changes to workplace laws
New federal workplace laws, known as WorkChoices, came into effect on 27 March 2006. Before WorkChoices, Victorian workers were protected by safety net awards. These awards set out the minimum entitlements for workers depending on their job. Visit our How will WorkChoices Affect Me page for more information about these changes.
Worker rights
Every worker is entitled to proper working conditions, including the right to:
- A healthy and safe workplace
- Minimum terms and conditions of employment
- Be paid the legal rate of pay
- Receive regular pay slips and to have tax deducted from your wages
- Have superannuation contributions made on your behalf (if you are eligible)
- Join a union
- Have WorkCover insurance in the event of a work related illness or injury
- A workplace free from discrimination
Employer obligations
Depending on the work done and the terms and conditions the work was commenced under, there are a range of legal requirements an employer must comply with. An employer has an obligation to:
- Provide minimum terms and conditions of employment (e.g. to pay minimum wages or allow meal breaks)
- To record employee information
- Avoid misleading conduct
- Comply with requirements relating to WorkCover, payroll tax, group tax etc.
There are various forms of protection for workers that are set down in law, even in workplaces where a federal award or agreement doesn't apply.
Links
Find out more about your rights and employer responsibilities on these sites:
JobWatch - Employment Rights Legal Centre
A Victorian Community Legal Centre specialising in employment law.
Office of the Workplace Rights Advocate
The Victorian Government's response to WorkChoices. Provides information and advice to both employers and employees on employment rights.
Victorian WorkCover Authority - Worksafe
Safety issues and obligations in the workplace.
WorkChoices
Federal Government's site explaining and promoting the new WorkChoices system. You can download a copy of the legislation and a copy of the WorkChoices booklet.
ACTU Worksite for Schools
Introductory information about the world of work.
