Industry Sectors

Understanding Industrial Relations Law

Industrial relations law, also commonly referred to as industrial law, encompasses the legal framework that governs the relationship between employers, employees, and unions. It dictates everything from workplace safety and fair wages, to employment contracts and dispute resolution. Understanding these laws is paramount for businesses operating in any sector, large or small.

The implications of industry law are far-reaching and failing to comply with these regulations can lead to significant financial penalties, reputational damage, and legal action. Common regulatory challenges businesses face includes:

• Fair Work Act Compliance: Understanding and adhering to the National Employment Standards (NES) and modern awards.
• Workplace Health and Safety (WHS): Ensuring a safe working environment and meeting all WHS obligations.
• Contract Negotiations: Drafting and negotiating legally sound employment contracts.
• Dispute Resolution: Managing and resolving workplace disputes effectively and fairly.
• Unfair Dismissal Claims: Defending against unfair dismissal claims and understanding termination procedures.

Our team at Coleman Greig boast a deep and comprehensive understanding of the ever-evolving industrial laws and their impact on businesses across a variety of sectors. We provide clear, practical advice to help you navigate these complexities and mitigate any risks.

Our Sector-Specific Legal Services

We recognise that each industry faces unique challenges and requires tailored legal solutions. Our team has extensive experience working with businesses across a broad spectrum of sectors, including:

• Construction: Addressing issues related to site safety, contractor agreements, union negotiations, managing casual labour during peak periods, and navigating disputes with subcontractors regarding payments or variations.
• Healthcare: Navigating complex employment regulations within hospitals, clinics, and aged care facilities. This includes advising on compliance with health sector-specific awards, managing staff shortages while adhering to fatigue management regulations, and handling sensitive privacy issues related to patient data.
• Retail: Handling issues related to award rates, employee management, workplace theft, managing peak season staffing requirements (including casual and part-time employees), and ensuring compliance with consumer law related to product warranties and returns.
• Hospitality: Providing advice on rostering, wage compliance, dealing with casual employees, managing alcohol licensing requirements, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
• Manufacturing: Assisting with workplace safety, industrial action, enterprise bargaining agreements, navigating supply chain disruptions, and managing workplace health and safety risks associated with hazardous materials.
• Property & Business Services: Advising on contractor agreements, service level agreements (SLAs), lease agreements (commercial and residential), and compliance with privacy laws related to handling client data.
• Transport & Logistics: Addressing issues related to driver fatigue management, compliance with transport regulations (e.g., Chain of Responsibility), managing workplace health and safety in warehouses and distribution centres, and dealing with cargo loss or damage claims.
• Finance & Insurance: Handling matters relating to compliance with financial services regulations (e.g., ASIC requirements), managing privacy and data security risks, advising on employment agreements for financial advisors and brokers, and dealing with disputes related to insurance claims.

Tailored Solutions for Industrial Relations

Coleman Greig Lawyers offers bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of your industry. Our approach is proactive, focusing on prevention and early intervention to minimise potential legal issues.

We understand that one size certainly does not fit all. As such, we’ll work closely with you to understand your business, your challenges, and your goals – and develop strategies that are specifically designed to meet your needs.

Whether you’re dealing with a complicated claim, or simply need to manage your legal requirements, Coleman Greig is here to help.
Our services include:

• Contract Review and Drafting: Ensuring your employment contracts are legally sound and protect your interests.
• Policy Development: Creating comprehensive workplace policies that comply with all relevant legislation.
• Training and Education: Providing training to your staff on their rights and responsibilities under industrial relations laws.
• Strategic Advice: Helping you develop long-term strategies to manage your workforce and minimise legal risks.

Support from Industrial Relations Solicitors

Our team of experienced industrial relations solicitors provides comprehensive support and robust representation in all aspects of industrial law. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our valued clients, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

Our industrial solicitors can assist you with:

• Dispute Resolution: Representing you in Fair Work Commission proceedings, mediations, and court hearings.
• Compliance Audits: Conducting thorough audits of your workplace to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Enterprise Bargaining: Negotiating enterprise bargaining agreements with unions on your behalf.
• Unfair Dismissal Claims: Defending against unfair dismissal claims and advising on termination procedures.
• General Protections Claims: Handling claims related to discrimination, bullying, and harassment.

We understand that dealing with legal issues can be stressful and time-consuming. Rest assured our industrial relations solicitors are here to guide you through the process, providing clear, practical advice and unwavering support.

Common Challenges in Industrial Relations Law

Businesses often encounter a range of legal challenges related to industrial relations law. Some of the most common include:

• Misunderstanding Award Obligations: Incorrectly applying award rates and conditions, leading to underpayment claims.
• Managing Employee Performance: Dealing with underperforming employees in a legally compliant manner.
• Handling Workplace Bullying and Harassment: Investigating and addressing allegations of bullying and harassment effectively.
• Navigating Restructuring and Redundancies: Implementing redundancies in a fair and transparent manner, avoiding unfair dismissal claims.
• Responding to Union Activity: Managing industrial action and negotiating with unions constructively.

Coleman Greig Lawyers can provide proactive support in navigating these sensitive issues. We offer tailored advice, practical solutions, and robust representation to protect your business interests.

We can help you develop robust workplace policies, conduct thorough investigations, and represent you in any and all legal proceedings.