People Matter - MARCH 2024
HR Dept Eastern Suburbs Sydney
Preventing People Problems | Outsourced HR Support
Introduction: The Australian way of working is set to change dramatically, after the Senate passed the second Closing Loopholes bill. The bill grants employees the right to refuse contact from their employer out of hours, unless that refusal is unreasonable. It means that workers will legitimately be able to switch off from work at the end of each day – just like in years gone by! If you’d like assistance in implementing policies around this right to disconnect, get in touch with the HR Dept.??
News: The Australian HR Institute has predicted that the mean basic pay increase will hit 3.7% in the 12 months to January 2025.
News: The Queensland Government has launched a new online tool that aims to enhance the awareness of First Nations staff. The First Nations Cultural Responsibility Resource tool offers businesses practical advice on cultural awareness and training to help them foster a supportive workplace environment for First Nations workers and operators.
News: Australia's unemployment rate rose to 4.1% in January as the number of unemployed people increased by 22,000, according to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It was the first time in two years that the unemployment rate had been above 4%.
News: The Western Australian Government is seeking to introduce tougher penalties for those who assault retail workers. The legislation would lift the maximum penalty for assaulting a retail worker to seven years in prison, or three years and a fine of $36,000.
News: Australia’s unemployment rate stayed at 3.9% in December 2023, data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows. Full-time employment also declined by 106,600, while part-time employment increased by 41,400 people, according to ABS data.
News: The Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Bill 2023, which takes effect on July 1, makes it a criminal offence for employers to force or unduly influence migrant workers to work in breach of their visa conditions. The law also grants the Minister authority to bar employers from hiring any migrant workers on temporary visas if they are found guilty of exploitation.
News: Randstad's latest Workmonitor research revealed that only 64% of Australians are putting career ambition on top of their priorities, behind work-life balance (95%) and flexible working hours (87%).
Measuring inclusion and well-being at work: building a healthy workplace culture
Creating a work environment where every employee feels valued, respected, and supported is the cornerstone of a successful and sustainable business. But how can business owners effectively measure and gauge the level of inclusion and well-being within their organisation? Here are some key strategies to consider:
Employee Surveys and Feedback Mechanisms
Implementing regular employee surveys focused on inclusion and well-being can provide valuable insights. These surveys offer anonymity, encouraging honest feedback that can pinpoint areas for improvement.
Retention Rates and Turnover Data
Monitoring employee retention rates and turnover data provides a gauge of workplace satisfaction and inclusion.
Diversity Metrics and Representation
Assessing diversity metrics within the workplace is crucial for understanding inclusivity.
Employee Participation and Engagement Levels
Engagement levels and participation in various workplace activities, such as volunteering, workshops, or diversity events, can indicate a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
Health and Absence Data
Monitoring employee health metrics and patterns of absence can reflect well-being within the workplace.
Inclusion and Well-being Programs Assessment
Evaluate the effectiveness of programs designed to enhance inclusion and well-being.
Qualitative Stories and Testimonials
Collecting personal stories or testimonials from employees about their experiences regarding inclusion and well-being can provide powerful insights.
Regular Benchmarking and Continuous Improvement
Regularly benchmarking your organisation against industry standards or similar companies helps in understanding where your organisation stands.
Measuring inclusion and well-being at work is not a one-size-fits-all approach. If you need support on how to build a healthy workplace culture, reach out to your local HR Dept; we’re here to help.
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How to cultivate effective leadership
Here are four key strategies to help build more effective leaders:?
1. The complimentary fruit bowl.?Providing free fruit for your team is a kind-spirited and well-intentioned way in which to promote more healthy snacking.
2. A discounted or free gym membership.?Gym membership is a desirable employee benefit, as there is something for everyone: from gentle trainer-led classes to intense cardiovascular and weight-lifting regimes.
3. A cycle-to-work scheme.?This promotes exercise, is good for the environment and may solve parking problems at your workplace. What’s not to like!
4. Medical benefits.?Employees get the convenience and quick access to experts; and you can get poorly staff back off sick leave sooner!
5. Mental health initiatives.?A cost-effective Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is advisable for almost every business.
For advice on how to instil a healthier workplace please reach out with your local HR Dept today.
Mastering the role of a support person in HR meetings
A support person, often a colleague or union representative, accompanies an employee during HR meetings for guidance and emotional support. Their primary role is to observe and provide assistance without disrupting the meeting's flow.
Understanding the Role of a Support Person
Before the Meeting - Preparation Is Key
During the Meeting - Maintaining Professional Conduct
Managing the Meeting Dynamics
Respecting Employee Rights
Post-Meeting Follow-Up
Effectively managing a support person's role in disciplinary meetings requires clear communication, maintaining professionalism, and upholding the meeting's integrity. When managed adeptly, the presence of a support person can contribute positively to the fairness and transparency of disciplinary discussions.
Reach out to your local HR Dept if you would like more information about this topic.
Strategies for success for overperforming employees
While managing underperforming employees is a common concern for managers, dealing with overperformers brings its own set of challenges. Here are some strategies for dealing with these types of employees:
To know more on how to manage overperforming employees, contact?your local HR Dept today.