Important amendments to the Fair Work Act 2009 have now come into effect, resulting in significant changes, particularly for employers.
Greenfields agreements - new process for negotiating
A new process for negotiating greenfields agreements has been established, whereby employers now have an obligation to bargain in good faith when involved in greenfields negotiations. This new process includes an optional six month negotiation timeframe. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement within six months, the employer may apply to the Fair Work Commission for a determination.