Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Australia

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Founded in 2023
25 people in their team
English
Pioneer Global Education and Migration Service operates as a specialist education and migration consultancy registered in Australia, led by MARA-registered agents and qualified education counsellors. The firm focuses on visa strategy and study-abroad placement for clients pursuing pathways to work,...
Archer Thompson
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2006
25 people in their team
English
OverviewRichard has over 30 yearsโ€™ experience in employment law and commercial dispute resolution. He has worked as an industrial relations advisor, lawyer, and barrister.Richard has built up a law practice acting for both commercial and private clients, specialising in all aspects of employment...
Bold Lawyers
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 2004
10 people in their team
English
About usBold Lawyers know that experience and great results are important. Just as important is the amount of money charged by your lawyer to achieve the result you want. Your legal fees can and should be reasonable no matter how big or small your case is.Depending on the agreement that you sign...
Abetz Curtis
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 1987
50 people in their team
English
About usEstablished in 1987 by Roger Curtis in Hobart, Tasmania, Abetz Curtis Lawyers has grown to become the modern, progressive practice it is today, offering our clients a range of services across a broad spectrum of legal areas. Our lawyers understand the variety and complexity of legal issues...

Founded in 2000
43 people in their team
English
AR LAW SERVICES: Lawyers & ConsultantsAR LAW SERVICES: Master Migration & Litigation Lawyers is a Melbourne based full service Australian immigration and litigation law firm with offices throughout Australia.  Built upon a foundation of integrity, expertise and commitment to success,...
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...
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...
Executive Rights
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2001
10 people in their team
English
Firm ProfileExecutive Rights Employment Lawyers was established in 2001 by Bruce Planck, solicitor, to meet the particular needs of Australian executives with respect to their employment law issues. This includes those executives in the expatriate community. Since that time, a large number of...
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...
HHG Legal Group | Perth
Perth, Australia

Founded in 1919
60 people in their team
English
HHG Legal Group is a renowned Western Australian law firm with a century of experience providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and businesses. The Perth practice offers expertise across Family Law, Commercial Law, Wills and Estates, Dispute Resolution, Criminal Law, Employment Law,...
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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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