The Fair Work Act which came into force 1 July, will have a deep impact on the franchising industry, says Mark Fernandez, WA state manager for leading consultancy, Franchise Alliance and franchisers will need to be aware of the implications for their business and their franchisees.
“Franchisers need to review workplace contracts and take action to inform their franchisees of important changes.”
Fernandez said the new laws will have serious implications for franchisers and franchisees.
“As well as the new national ‘Award Modernisation’ conditions for employee agreements, franchisees need to be aware of new unfair dismissal laws, minimum conditions, increased penalties for trading outside normal hours, and widening of terms to the Discrimination Act.”
According to Fernandez they key to compliance is to be informed. He is urging all franchisers/franchisees to take a close look at the new changes and to get expert advice on the implications and their responsibilities.
“I strongly urge all franchisers to review all employee agreements against new national conditions for their industry.”
For more information about changes to legislation, please visit www.airc.gov.au
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