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Thinking about redundancies? Here's what every employer should know
Redundancies are increasing across many industries. Even in seasonal industries like horticulture, there are times when permanent positions are no longer required for a number of reasons. Before making any decisions, make sure your business understands its obligations and how to manage the process with confidence and care.
Psychological claims linked to issues every-day leaders can influence
One statistic recently stopped us in our tracks. The median time away from work for a serious mental health workers' compensation claim is now 35.7 weeks. The surprising part? More than 73% of serious mental stress claims are linked to workplace issues leaders influence every day.
Hazing? A thing of the past and a valid reason for dismissal according to the FWC
A Jetstar engineer with 23 years' experience thought stranding two apprentices six metres in the air on an elevated work platform was just a bit of "horseplay." The Fair Work Commission disagreed — and upheld his dismissal.
Webinar: IR Unpacked 2026
In this webinar, QFVG's Partner Who Cares, Focus HR provides a comprehensive breakdown of the significant industrial relations changes and the new minimum wage decision that came into effect on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.
Fair Work Commission delivers significant minimum wage increase for 2026–27
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has handed down its Annual Wage Review decision, confirming significant increases to both the National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages from 1 July 2026.
Leadership and friendship: Can you really be both?
This is a topic that often comes up in leadership programs and is something that a lot of managers (particularly first-time managers who have been promoted internally) face.
Returning to work after illness or injury
When an employee experiences illness or injury, returning to work can be a significant transition for both the employee and the employer. Whether the illness or injury occurred at work or outside of work, a successful return to work process requires understanding, communication and cooperation from everyone involved.
IR Unpacked: Your 1 July Fair Work Update
Over the past 12 months, the industrial relations landscape hasn’t just shifted - it’s accelerated.
General Protections claims on the rise
General Protections (GP) claims continue to rise at a pace that is outstripping other Fair Work Commission (FWC) applications, prompting procedural changes from both the Commission and the Federal Court.
When the cost of getting to work becomes a barrier
Rising fuel prices are starting to show up in the workplace in a very real way. We’re increasingly hearing from growers that employees are raising concerns about the cost of simply getting to work.
Workforce options following a natural disaster
For growers impacted by the recent weather events it is important to understand how to best manage your skilled workforce and not lose good employees.
Protecting Your Business in 2026: The HR/IR Risks You Can’t Ignore
In this 45-minute webinar, QFVG Partner Who Cares, Focus HR, unpacks the most pressing workplace issues facing horticulture businesses right now.
Queensland labour hire provider in court
The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against a Queensland-based labour hire provider and its manager for allegedly knowingly providing false and misleading records to a Fair Work Inspector.
Employer obligations after a natural disaster
For growers impacted by the recent weather events it is important to understand how to best manage your skilled workforce and not lose good employees.
Superannuation rules updated in awards
The Fair Work Commission recently updated the rules about superannuation in 147 Awards to make sure that Awards reflect the current superannuation rules.
Probation isn't a checkbox - it's where performance and culture begin
Are you using probation periods to their full potential? Probation is often treated as a checkbox, but when handled well it can become a powerful driver of performance, engagement and workplace culture.
Four common questions employers ask about unpaid leave
Unpaid leave isn’t always straightforward. A new Fair Work Commission ruling highlights the importance of fairness, clarity and good documentation. This article breaks down the key lessons for employers.
Updated Fixed Term Contract Information Sheet
A new version of the Fixed Term Contract Information Statement (FTCIS) is now available. This update reflects recent changes to the rules and exceptions around the use of fixed term contracts.
Pay Day Super
On 4 November 2025, Parliament approved new laws to bring in Payday Super. Starting 1 July 2026, super contributions will need to be paid at the same time employees are paid.
Public holidays – What can you ask your team and how to pay them
Across the agricultural sector, work doesn’t always stop just because the calendar says it’s a public holiday. Animals still need feeding, crops still need water, machinery still needs tending, and some tasks can’t simply be pushed to the next day.
