Australian Industry Group will “continue to unashamedly make the case for sensible and reasonable changes to IR laws”, Chief Executive Innes Willox said as he welcomed guests to our PIR Conference for workplace relations professionals last week.
“The Government has maintained a constructive relationship with Australian Industry Group and has listened and acted when we have been able to clearly demonstrate unintended consequences of proposals or in the drafting of legislation," Mr Willox said.
“It is not time to wave the white flag on genuine workplace relations reform.
“I also want to emphasise that beyond advocating on your behalf, we are equally devoted to ensuring members have the advice, information and professional support you need to navigate regulatory change.
“We have an ever-evolving suite of resources and training programs and events for members to access.
“Our Workplace Advice Line is always available for you to call for immediate advice or as a sounding board when you grapple with the complexities of our workplace laws.
“And, of course, we have a national team of more than 40 specialised workplace relations lawyers who can advise and represent you in relation to the full gamut of workplace relations issues.
“I am reminded of a conversation I had with the senior employment lawyer at a well-known top-tier firm who happily told me we did all the hard work for everyone in the field because we were the only ones in the room at the creation of the legislation that supported their practice.
“Being in the room is the advantage we have that nobody else can match.
“In the face of a rapidly expanding volume of matters being referred to the Commission, I would also remind members that our lawyers have a right to appear in Fair Work Commission proceedings without needing to run the gauntlet of securing the Commission’s permission the way other law firms are required to do.
“Maintaining this support for members is at the core of our purpose as an employer association.”
Wendy Larter is Communications Manager at Australian Industry Group.
A former journalist for newspapers and magazines including The Courier-Mail in Brisbane and Metro, the News of the World, The Times and Elle in the UK, she is passionate about giving businesses a voice.
