Building & Technical Updates

HIA Workplace Services Team

The building industry is a dynamic one - HIA recognises that its members whether they be builders, trade contractors or manufacturers and suppliers all are required to operate amidst a minefield of constantly changing laws and regulations and from time will need some external assistance in managing through this minefield. Just Click here to find out how to access help when you need it.

How the HIA Guide to K&B Construction can help your business
‘Calling up’ or referencing the Guide to K&B Construction in your Contract schedule or in your specifications can help resolve potential issues. One example is in relation to material finishes where the Guide clearly sets out the acceptable ‘viewing distance’ to establish whether an imperfection is acceptable or otherwise. This issue is often difficult to resolve where consumers may unreasonably expect absolute perfection in material finishes supplied to the business by the original manufacturer. Click here for more

New Award, Employment Standards & Employment Laws
National Minimum Wage Increase to Apply from 1 July The federal minimum wage increased to $569.90 per week and modern award rates will increase by $26 per week following an order made by Fair Work Australia in June. Click here for more information
For further assistance in determining the modern awards and the new rates that apply, you can contact an HIA Workplace Adviser on 1300 650 620 or access HIA's Modern Awards Guide by clicking here

Considering dismissing an employee?
What you need to know A Small Business Fair Dismissal Code (Code) exists to provide guidance to federal system small business employers who are considering dismissing employees. Until 1 January 2011, small business employers are businesses with fewer than 15 full-time equivalent employees. From 1 January 2011, the meaning of small business employer will change to businesses with fewer than 15 employees based on a simple headcount.

The Code describes the procedures that should be followed when dealing with underperforming employees. It also sets out some of the more serious conduct that may warrant instant dismissal. There is also a checklist (which has recently been updated) accompanying the Code. This checklist may help you comply with the Code if you make the decision to dismiss your employee. You can access the Code, together with the updated checklist form here. For more information, contact your HIA Workplace Adviser on 1300 650 620

Paid Parental Leave as at 1 January 2011
A Government funded paid parental leave scheme will come into operation from 1 January 2011. It will provide up to 18 weeks pay (at the federal minimum wage) to an employee who is the primary care giver of a new baby or adopted child. Although the scheme is government funded, from 1 July 2011 businesses will need to distribute the money directly to their employees in most situations. For more information click here.