New working-from-home rules for Clerks Award employees: Are you ready?
New working-from-home rules under the Clerks – Private Sector Award 2020 took effect on 26 October 2026, giving covered employees a formal right to request working-from-home arrangements. Employers need to understand the new requirements around written requests, agreements, hours, record keeping and handling existing arrangements. HR+ explains what has changed, who is covered and the practical steps employers should take now to remain compliant.
Psychological safety is now the law: What employers need to know
Victoria’s new Psychological Health Regulations formally came into effect on 1 December 2025, with most other states already having this legislation in place.
For employers, this marked a significant shift. Managing psychosocial risks is now a legal obligation under occupational health and safety law, not just a wellbeing initiative.
The message is clear: psychological safety must be treated with the same seriousness as physical safety.
Don’t get caught underpaying staff on annualised pay rates
On 5 September 2025, the Federal Court handed down a major ruling.
This case involved the alleged underpayment of employees by Woolworths Group Limited (Woolworths) and Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty Ltd (Coles), as claimed by the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO).
The decision has important lessons for all employers using annualised wages or set-off clauses.
Stronger workplace sexual harassment laws: Is your business prepared?
Several laws in Australia, including federal and state legislation, strongly prohibit sexual harassment in connection with work.
Over recent years, these laws have been tightening, with an increased focus on prevention.
Businesses are now expected to identify risks, take proactive measures, and update policies to address sexual and gender-based harassment, even before any incident is notified.