Workplace Relations Regulations
The Workplace Relations Regulations 2006 repeal and replace the Workplace Relations Regulations 1996.
The regulations fall into two broad categories:
- machinery regulations made under the WR Act (as amended)n that are necessary for the effective ongoing operation of the WR Act; and
- transitional regulations made under the Work Choices Act that are necessary to help facilitate a smooth transition from the current workplace relations system to the new workplace relations system.
The key issues covered by machinery regulations relate to:
- ‘cover the field’ provisions in Work Choices Act;
- the interaction of the Australian Fair Pay and Conditions Standard with agreements and awards;
- prohibited content in workplace agreements and incoming state instruments;
- part-heard matters and appeals relating to the pre-reform federal workplace relations system and State and Territory workplace relations systems on reform commencement;
- the process for conduct secret ballots prior to the taking of protected industrial action; and
- time and wage record keeping requirements.
The Regulations will commence at the same time as the proclamation of the reminder of the Work Choices Act on 27 March 2006.
Explanatory Statement