Industrial Relations, Industrial Disputes and Union Issues

Conflict is obviously not a new phenomenon in the workplace, but the roles of management/employers and employees are undergoing change.

 

FoodBev HRS is uniquely placed to assist you with industrial relations issues. Over the years, we have provided advice and representation on a wide range of issues to centres ranging from small-medium enterprises through to multi-nationals. We understand the need to maintain a harmonious balance between all parties - from the shareholders, to the employees, to the union, to the Tribunals and the Fair Work Ombudsman - and the importance of negotiation in the workplace.

 

There is a statutory right for officials of organisations who hold entry permits to enter premises for purposes related to their representative role under the Fair Work Act and under State and Territory occupational health and safety laws. Entry can be for one of three reasons:

1. to investigate a suspected breach of the Fair Work Act or an industrial instrument which applies or applied to a member of the union

2. to hold discussions with employees who are members of the union or eligible to be members

3. to exercise a right under State or Territory occupational health and safety law.

 

We have an extensive knowledge and understanding of the relevant legislation and can both pre-empt potential workplace disputes and successfully manage a dispute, should one arise.

 

We offer our clients a range of legal advice in the industrial relations area such as :

• Urgent advice and representation on industrial action (eg strike, picketing)

• Union rights of workplace entry

• Advice on award interpretation and compliance

• Assisting with claims (eg underpayments, unfair dismissal, general protections) in all Courts and the Fair Work Commission

• Breach of award claims

• Interpreting and advising in relation to enterprise agreements

• Managing industrial disputes and related litigation

• Representing you in issues with unions representing employees

• Advising on union rights of entry and;

• Advising on compliance and risk management issues.