Using the Fair Work Ombudsman Service & Resources

The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) is responsible for ensuring fair work practices across Australia.

With a keen eye on compliance, the FWO is here to help you navigate the complexities of employment laws, making sure you’re looking after not only your crops but also your workers. For those in the horticulture sector, staying on top of these obligations is not just good practice, it’s essential for the health of our business and the industry.

Understanding Your Obligations

Under Fair Work system, you’ve got plenty of responsibilities to ensure your workers are treated fairly. This includes everything from providing the correct pay rates to keeping accurate records and ensuring your employees are aware of their entitlements. This means understanding the specifics that apply to casual, part-time, and full-time employees, including piece rates and seasonal work nuances.

Pay Rates, Record-Keeping, and Employee Entitlements

Make sure you’re paying your workers the right amount. The pay rates can vary depending on the work being done, so it’s crucial to check the specifics for your sector. Record-keeping is another biggie – it’s your proof that you’re doing the right thing by your workers. And let’s not forget about employee entitlements, including leave, overtime, and superannuation.

Resources Available from the FWO

The FWO website is packed with resources tailored for the horticulture industry. They’ve got you covered, from guides and fact sheets that break down the legal jargon to online tools that help you calculate pay rates, leave, and termination entitlements. And the best part? It’s all free. Explore these resources on the FWO’s Horticulture Showcase.

Compliance and Support

Navigating the complexities of Australian labour laws can be a daunting task, but you’re not in it alone. The FWO offers a wealth of resources and personalised support to help ensure your business complies with the Fair Work Act. The FWO introduces a concept known as “enforceable undertakings,” a constructive path forward without the need for litigation for those who may have inadvertently breached workplace laws. This approach underscores the FWO’s commitment to supporting employers in maintaining fair work practices. Learn more about enforceable undertakings.

Recent legislation changes:

The FWO have some useful information on the recent legislation changes.
– Closing loopholes – www.fairwork.gov.au/closing-loopholes
– Protecting worker entitlements – www.fairwork.gov.au/PWE
– Secure Jobs, Better Pay – www.fairwork.gov.au/SJBP

How to Contact the FWO

Getting in touch with the FWO is easier than finding a needle in a haystack. Whether you prefer talking over the phone, sending an online inquiry, or visiting an office in person, they’re ready to help. Don’t be a stranger – reaching out proactively can help prevent disputes and ensure you’re ticking all the right boxes.

Contact Information

To contact the FWO, you can call them or send an online inquiry:

• Phone: Call them on 13 13 94 between 8am – 5:30pm Monday to Friday.
• Online Enquiries: Online enquiries – Fair Work Ombudsman

By utilising the resources and support offered by the FWO, you’re not only looking after your workers but also setting your business up for success.

For comprehensive guidance on hiring, paying, and managing harvest workers, visit the FWO’s website which includes resources and templates for employers.