Queensland’s industrial relations system
The Queensland industrial relations system is quick, easy and fair to use. It provides an independent umpire to resolve disputes, minimum standards enshrined in law and comprehensive awards with enforceable entitlements, protection for independent contractors and unfair dismissal protection for all Queenslanders.
Prior to WorkChoices, Queensland's industrial relations system covered approximately 70 per cent of the workforce. The remaining 30 per cent of employees in Queensland were covered by the Federal system. It is estimated that Queensland's State coverage has now dropped to 40 per cent due to the Federal laws.
The Queensland Department of Justice and Attorney-General, formerly the Queensland Department of Employment and Industrial Relations (DEIR) administers the Industrial Relations Act 1999 (state legislation) and other legislation dealing with employer/employee relationships.
The Industrial Relations Act 1999 sets out certain rights and obligations for employers and employees in relation to their contract of employment including minimum entitlements for all employees regardless of whether their work is or is not covered by an industrial award.
The Act provides for a strong and relevant award system, provides a greater choice of agreements to suit different employment situations and circumstances, and provides for certain minimum rights and obligations.
Both employers and employees use organisations to represent them in negotiations - unions for employees and employer associations for employers. The system gives employers the flexibility to make agreements that suit their business needs, while ensuring that workers are protected.
The Queensland Government recognises the importance of fair and balanced unfair dismissal laws and protects all employees irrespective of whether they work in a small or large business. Long term casual employees are also offered protection under the Queensland system.
The Government plays a role in industrial relations policy making (deciding what the rules are), enforcement of conditions (making sure the rules are followed) and providing an independent industrial relations tribunal - the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC) or the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) (non-Queensland Government link) - to check and approve awards and agreements, prevent and resolve disputes and make orders.
The Queensland system recognises the important needs of employers and employees in regional areas and provides services to the majority of Queenslanders (53 per cent) who are employed outside the Brisbane region.
Inspectors are available to respond quickly to problems and to provide advice to employers and employees on their rights and responsibilities. The department also provides information through Wageline, its statewide information service.
In 2007-08, the Queensland industrial relations enforcement framework has resulted in:
- investigation of approximately 3,000 complaints, resulting in recovery of approximately $5 million on behalf of Queensland employees across the state
- more than 150 prosecutions for the recovery of wages and offences
- approximately 7,500 general audits
Last updated 11 August 2009
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