COVID-19 Temporary Award Changes

|announcements covid19 news
COVID19 image

On the 30th March, the Fair Work Commission has reacted also to the situation we are all in with the COVID-19 Pandemic, and advised of some temporary changes made, which will operate under some Awards until 30 June 2020.

To date, these changes are specific to the Clerks Private Sector Award 2010 (commencing on 28 March 2020) and the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2010 (commencing on 24 March 2020).

The Clerks Private Sector Award has inserted a schedule, Schedule I regarding Award Flexibility during the COVID-19 Pandemic.  It offers flexibility to the normal provisions, on

  • the type of work employees can be directed to carry out
  • Part time employees working from home, minimum engagements
  • Casual employees working from home, minimum engagements
  • Changes to the span of ordinary hours for employees working from home
  • Agreed temporary reduction in ordinary hours
  • Notice to direct employees to take annual leave
  • Ability to take leave at reduced rates
  • Notice to employees to take leave during a close down

Under the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2010 there is also a schedule inserted, Schedule L, regarding Award Flexibility during the COVID-19 Pandemic.   It offers flexibility to the normal provisions on;

  • Flexibility on work undertaken
  • Changes to hours of work for full time & part time employees
  • Directing employees to take annual leave
  • Disputes due to the schedule to be referred to the Fair Work Commission

A further award, the Restaurant Industry Award 2010, has been updated, commencing 31 March 2020.   These changes offer flexibility to the normal provisions on;

  • They type of work employees can be directed to do
  • Full time and Part time hours of work
  • Directing employees to take annual leave
  • Close-down provisions

Now is the time to consult and communicate with your team, regardless of any award provisions.

If you require advice on these provisions or further assistance with the management of your staff during this time, please let us know.    We are here to help.  We remain available via email or phone – leisa.messer@hrbd.com.au or 0401 271 616 | 07 3890 2066.

 

We hope you are OK.  Take care.  Keep safe.

The Team at HR Business Direction