Dear Reader,

How do you feel about modern awards? Confused? Even a little overwhelmed?

Well you’re not alone…

A lot of people – myself included – have been sceptical about how the transition to modern awards will work. Why? Because when they are implemented on 1 January 2010, it will mean a sudden and huge change for many employers.

And it’s no simple change either. If a modern award will apply to your employees, then all of their employment conditions will be different – and you will have to adjust.

And let’s just say it will be quite an adjustment!

But wait – there is some good news…

There will now be a six month “grace” period for transitioning to modern awards. This means that you will be able to get used to the changes before you have to abide by them for good!

The federal government has also ruled that many of the changes set out in modern awards will now be phased in over 5 years – starting from the end of the “grace” period on 1 July 2010 – so you will have even more of a chance to adjust.

Thanks goodness for that!

Plus, if you’re a subscriber to the Employment Law Practical Handbook, you’ll be getting all the information you need to stay on top of modern awards in your future updates.

If you are not yet subscribed, click here to find out more!

Until next time…

Claire

P.S If you have any questions, comments or suggestions about the Bulletin, I would love to hear them. Don’t forget to email me at claire@workplacehandbook.com.au with your ideas!

Tags: employees, employers, employment conditions, federal government, modern awards