The Albanese government's new industrial relations laws come into effect this week, with Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt forced to defend the reforms from accusations they will tank productivity and harm the economy.Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt has defended the Albanese government's new industrial relations reforms after businesses claimed the"heavy-handed" changes would harm productivity and harm operations.
The controversial new laws come into effect on Monday, with businesses now required to limit contacting employees outside working hours, clamp down on the use of independent contractors and provide an easier path for casual workers to become permanent staff. Picture: Getty Images Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt has defended the Albanese government's new industrial relations reforms after businesses claimed the"heavy-handed" changes would harm productivity and harm operations. Picture: David Clark
Addressing criticism the legislation lacked clarity about what qualified as a"reasonable" situation in which employers could contact workers outside business hours, Senator Watt added it was up to organisations to"have a conversation" with employees about how to approach differing circumstances.