Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Australia

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Johnston Withers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1946
200 people in their team
English
Overview Founded over 70 years ago, Johnston Withers is a progressive and professional law firm. We combine our history, extensive experience, commitment to justice to deliver value across all your legal needs. Proudly South Australian with offices situated in the CBD and regional South...
Hillhouse Burrough McKeown
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 1991
50 people in their team
English
About usWelcome to Hillhouse Legal Partners. We provide our clients with trusted, solutions-oriented legal strategy and advice, as we have for nearly 30 years. As a mid-sized law firm, we combine broad legal expertise with responsive and personal service. We apply our knowledge and experience to...
Bell Lawyers
Penrith, Australia

Founded in 1984
10 people in their team
English
About UsBell Lawyers was established in Penrith in 1984 and since that time has been providing quality legal services to the people of Western Sydney including country and regional NSW.Our firm has achieved a reputation for excellence, commitment, integrity and professionalism.Personal referrals...
Tindall Gask Bentley, Adelaide
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1970
English
Established in 1970, Tindall Gask Bentley (TGB) has grown to become one of South Australia's largest plaintiff law firms, offering a comprehensive range of legal services. The firm's areas of expertise include personal injury claims, family and divorce law, wills and estates, criminal law,...
Pace Lawyers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1998
10 people in their team
English
About usPace Lawyers is a business law firm. We take our work very seriously, because weโ€™re only as good as our last win. We specialise in Commercial & Corporate Law, Dispute Resolution, Property Law and Employment & Industrial Law . Our goals are to: Deliver rewarding legal outcomes to...
Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 2000
200 people in their team
English
Chinese
About usWeโ€™re a long-established Tasmanian legal firm, with a modern attitude and progressive approach.The Simmons Wolfhagen philosophy is to use our wide experience and broad range of skills to provide an effective and personally-focused service for every one of our clients.Our team...
Clarke & Gee Lawyers
Launceston, Australia

Founded in 1891
13 people in their team
English
About Us The history of our firm dates back to 1891. The current firm name โ€œClarke & Geeโ€ was first used in 1932 and we have been operating under this name ever since. Documents indicate that the use of the ampersand in our name was adopted from the outset and it now forms an iconic...
DW Fox Tucker Lawyers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 2014
200 people in their team
English
OverviewDW Fox Tucker is a leading independent South Australian commercial law firm. We were established on 1 October 2014 when the former partners of Donaldson Walsh joined with those of Fox Tucker to create an entirely new firm offering a broad, comprehensive range of general commercial services...
Lord Commercial Lawyers
Melbourne, Australia

English
Lord Commercial Lawyers is a Melbourne-based boutique practice specialising in commercial and business law for small and medium sized businesses. The firm emphasises cost-effective legal solutions and a practical, business minded approach developed over more than 20 years of specialised experience....
Canaan Lawyer
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2006
50 people in their team
English
About usWelcome to Canaan Lawyers  At Canaan Lawyers we focus on giving our clients a commercial advantage by providing high quality legal services in a practical and cost effective fashion.  At Canaan Lawyers we focus on giving our clients a commercial advantage by providing high quality...
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Australia Employment & Labor Legal Articles

Browse our 1 legal article about Employment & Labor in Australia written by expert lawyers.

Fired Without Warning in Australia: Unfair Dismissal Guide
Employment & Labor
Most Australian workplaces are covered by the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), National Employment Standards (NES) and a modern award or enterprise agreement that set minimum pay and conditions. Strict deadlines apply: unfair dismissal and most general protections dismissal claims must be lodged with the Fair Work Commission within 21... Read more โ†’

About Employment & Labor Law in Australia

Employment and labor law in Australia governs the relationship between employers and employees, covering aspects such as employment contracts, wages, working conditions, dismissals, discrimination, and workplace safety. It aims to protect the rights of employees while balancing business needs. The Fair Work Act 2009 is the cornerstone of these laws, providing a national workplace relations system that sets minimum employment standards. Additionally, various state and territory laws complement the federal framework, providing further protections and regulations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several scenarios where individuals or businesses may require legal assistance concerning employment and labor issues:

  • Unfair Dismissal: If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and the potential for filing a claim.
  • Discrimination or Harassment: Legal counsel may be necessary if you've experienced workplace discrimination or harassment to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive appropriate remedies.
  • Contractual Disputes: When disputes arise concerning the interpretation or enforcement of employment contracts, lawyers can provide guidance and representation.
  • Workplace Safety: If your workplace does not comply with safety regulations, or if you were injured at work, legal advice can help you address these issues.
  • Redundancy and Restructuring: During organizational changes, understanding your rights and entitlements is crucial. A lawyer can assist in interpreting the terms of redundancy.

Local Laws Overview

Employment and labor law in Australia is primarily governed by the Fair Work Act 2009, which provides protections such as the National Employment Standards (NES). These standards include provisions for maximum weekly hours, parental leave, annual leave, and notice of termination. The Fair Work Commission is responsible for regulating workplace relations, including dispute resolution, minimum wages, and enterprise bargaining.

Anti-discrimination laws, like the Sex Discrimination Act 1984, ensure equal treatment in the workplace regardless of factors like gender, age, or disability. Work health and safety is regulated under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, which outlines employer responsibilities to maintain safe working conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Fair Work Act?

The Fair Work Act 2009 is the main legislation governing employment in Australia. It sets out the framework for workplace relations, including employee rights and employer responsibilities.

What are the National Employment Standards (NES)?

NES are 11 minimum employment entitlements that have to be provided to all employees in Australia, such as maximum weekly hours, flexible working arrangements, and leave entitlements.

Can I be dismissed without a reason?

No, under the Fair Work Act, employees cannot be terminated without a valid reason. Unfair dismissal claims can be lodged if termination is unjust, unreasonable, or harsh.

Do casual employees have rights?

Yes, casual employees are entitled to certain rights, including a higher pay rate (casual loading) to compensate for the lack of certain benefits like sick and annual leave.

What constitutes workplace discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly due to personal characteristics like race, gender, age, or disability. It is prohibited under various anti-discrimination laws.

How can disputes be resolved?

Many disputes can be resolved through mediation or conciliation provided by the Fair Work Commission. Legal advice can guide the process and escalate matters if necessary.

What is enterprise bargaining?

Enterprise bargaining involves negotiating collective agreements at the enterprise level between employers and employees (or their representatives) to establish fair work conditions.

Do I have a right to flexible working conditions?

Yes, under the NES, certain employees have the right to request flexible working arrangements under specific circumstances, such as having school-aged children.

What should I do if I'm injured at work?

Report the injury to your employer and seek medical attention. You may be entitled to workers' compensation for injuries sustained at work. Legal advice can help navigate claims.

What is the role of the Fair Work Commission?

The Fair Work Commission is Australia's national workplace relations tribunal, handling issues like disputes, setting minimum wages, and approving enterprise agreements.

Additional Resources

  • Fair Work Ombudsman: Offers information and advice about workplace rights and obligations.
  • Safe Work Australia: Provides guidance on workplace health and safety standards.
  • Australian Human Rights Commission: Addresses issues of discrimination and human rights in the workplace.
  • Fair Work Commission: Manages industrial relations disputes and bargaining matters.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in employment and labor matters, consider the following steps:

  • Assess Your Situation: Gather relevant documentation, including contracts, correspondence, and any evidence related to your issue.
  • Consult a Lawyer: Seek advice from a lawyer specializing in employment and labor law to understand your rights and options. Initial consultations may help determine the best approach.
  • Explore Mediation: Consider mediation or conciliation services to resolve disputes amicably and cost-effectively.
  • File a Complaint: If necessary, file a complaint with the Fair Work Commission or relevant body to initiate formal proceedings.

Taking prompt action and obtaining sound legal advice can help protect your rights and achieve a fair resolution.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Employment & Labor, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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