South West Employment Education Campaign for the heartland of small business
Issue Date: - Monday, 16 February 2009
Small businesses in Western Australia’s South West are to be given the opportunity this month to brush up their knowledge of the State’s industrial laws, as both employers and employees seek to ensure business profitability in the current economic climate.
Acting Executive Director of Labour Relations with the Department of Commerce, Mr. Bob Horstman, said specialist workplace advisors from the Department will spend a week providing free advice to firms and workers in the Busselton-Dunsborough-Margaret River areas on employment rights and obligations in the WA industrial relations system.
Mr Horstman said “the South West is a heartland of small business, many of which fall under State employment laws, and the Department is keen to connect with regional communities”.
“Hospitality, tourism and horticulture are key industries in the region, with widespread casual and seasonal work. It is important to foster positive employment relationships for building productive businesses”.
Mr Horstman said education and advice on industrial laws helps avoid disagreements and disputes, which could result in potentially costly wages settlements and penalties for employers who do not comply with their obligations.
The State Government strongly believes in encouraging flexible, balanced and productive workplaces that serve the needs of both the employer and employee.
The education campaign will also seek to assist young workers with visits to TAFE colleges and secondary schools in the region to introduce them to “Your First Job”, the Department’s online employment resource, to ensure youth are well informed about workplace rights and obligations.
The campaign will run from 23 to 27 February 2009. Those wishing to meet the advisors should contact Wageline on 1300 655 266.
Ends.
Media contact: Rick Powell, Senior Media/Public Relations Officer,
Labour Relations Division, Department of Commerce.
Phone (08) 9222 7634 Mobile 0407 424 129
Email rick.powell@commerce.wa.gov.au