Industrial Relations (Restoring Fairness) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2015

Overview

This bill undoes industrial relations changes made by the previous government in 2012 and 2013 that reduced workplace conditions and union rights in Queensland's state system. It restores the independence of the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission, brings back union right of entry without notice, and removes restrictions on what can be included in workplace awards and agreements.

Who it affects

Queensland public sector workers, their unions, and state system employers including the Queensland Government, public hospitals, schools and local councils. Private-sector employees covered by the federal Fair Work Act are not affected.

Key changes

• Union officials can again enter workplaces during business hours without giving advance notice to inspect pay records and speak with members
• The Queensland Industrial Relations Commission no longer has to consider the State's financial position when arbitrating wages
• The ban on 'non-allowable' content in awards and agreements is abolished, letting workers bargain on issues like job security, contracting out and union encouragement
• Legal representation in Commission proceedings is no longer automatic, returning the QIRC to a layperson's tribunal
• Ten existing modern awards and seven certified agreements must be reviewed and varied by the Commission, with new agreements unable to be certified until that review is done
• Seven existing modern certified agreements will have an early nominal expiry three months after their underpinning award is varied, triggering re-bargaining