Workforce Australia (WFA) commenced in 2021 as a result of the findings of key reviews into the Jobactive program. Under the new model performance criteria have addressed some key failures of the previous systems. However the changes do not address some of the underlying flaws in how services are delivered to job seekers.
We understand the focus on work and care to apply to both the intersection of workplace laws with informal caring responsibilities, but also the intersection of the workplace laws with employment in the care sector.
NFAW is dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of Australian women, including intellectual, cultural, political, social, economic, legal, industrial and domestic spheres, and ensuring that the aims and ideals of the women’s movement and its collective wisdom are handed on to new generations of women. NFAW is a feminist organisation, independent of party politics and working Supporting women to achieve VET-based careers –Discussion Paper in partnership with other women’s organisations.
NFAW is grateful for the invitation to contribute to the review of the operation of the Fair Work Amendment (Supporting Australia’s Jobs and Economic Recovery) Act 2021(Cth) (the FW SAJER Act). We note, however, that 12 months is a short time in which to establish reliable impact data, especially when employment behaviour during that period has also been affected by the national pandemic response.
We do wish, however, to strongly commend the Government on the full package of measures addressing job security and gender equality (this includes the Supported Bargaining Stream and the Cooperative Bargaining Stream targeting small business).
we particularly want to note and welcome the package of amendments relating to equal remuneration. The provisions in this package fully implement the government’s election commitments, but more than that they display a desire to see pay equity work for women.
NFAW is grateful for the invitation to contribute to the review of the operation of the Fair Work Amendment (Supporting Australia’s Jobs and Economic Recovery) Act 2021 (Cth) (the FW SAJER Act). We note, however, that 12 months is a short time in which to establish reliable impact data, especially when employment behaviour during that period has also been affected by the national pandemic response.
The Bill straight forwardly embraces the suite of recommendations made by NFAW and other commentators from the sector on remedying the deficiencies of the previous Government’s response to Respect@Work.
The Government’s commitments to extend PPL to 26 weeks should be included in the Bill. As the overall length of PPL periods increase to 2026, fathers and partners should be actively encouraged to access the PPL provisions, through effective and targeted campaigns, and in particular by increasing the ‘use it or lose it’ period.