Failure to provide medical evidence for excessive sick leave: a valid reason for dismissal *

Australia - February 28 2013
In the recent decision of Ahern v BM Alliance Coal Operations Pty Ltd [2013] FWC 659, the Fair Work Commission upheld the dismissal of an employee…

Co-authors: Emily Haar.

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Independent Contractors Act: a “dead letter” resurrected *

Australia - December 18 2012
In a move worthy of Lazarus himself, the Full Court of the Federal Court has ruled that the unfair contract provisions in Part 3 of the Independent…

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Avoiding mistletoe misconduct *

Australia - November 21 2012
Prudent employers can reduce the risks by taking reasonable steps to prevent misconduct or injury and make the function a safe place to have fun.

Co-authors: Ben Motro, David Ey, Sharlene Wellard, Tim Capelin.

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Important changes to living away from home allowances to commence 1 October 2012 *

Australia - July 13 2012
Currently before the Federal Parliament is the Tax Laws Amendment (2012 Measures No. 4) Bill 2012 which, if passed, will result in significant changes to the laws relating to Living Away From Home Allowances (LAFHA).

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Directors and officers beware: increased penalties under new OH&S laws *

Australia - March 4 2011
On 1 January 2012 a new Work Health and Safety Act (WHS Act) will take effect in most States and Territories as part of a national project to "harmonise" Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) laws.

Co-authors: Mark Waters, Sharlene Wellard.

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