The transition from the Work Choices legislation to the new Fair Work Act is an ongoing process which Members will need to grapple with over the next few years.

In addition to the application of the new Federal Waste Management Award, which commences on 1 January 2010, Members face the prospect of growing Union involvement in the workplace.

Also the federal Independent Contractors Act is yet to be fully tested and its provisions defined by court decisions.

WCRA is committed to assisting its Members with ensuring compliance with the new industrial relations system and can assist Members on a wide range of workplace relations issues, providing services, information and advice on the following:

• The new collective enterprise agreement regime including the concept of good faith bargain and Unions' rights to represent employees and of entry;
• Representation before Fair Work Australia and NSW Industrial Relations Commission for unfair dismissal applications and industrial disputes;
• Managing employee grievances and counselling issues in the workplace;
• Strategic planning for managing workplace restructure and change including redundancy and transmission of business'
• Advice on compliance with waste industry awards and the transition to the Federal Modern Awards and the National Employment Standard.
• Updates on important relevant decisions by Fair Work Australia ;
• Advice on subcontractor and owner-driver arrangements.
• Dealing with occupational health and safety issues and workers compensation claims.
• Industry Briefings and seminars on updates to workplace law.

WCRA is recognised as the peak employer association representing the interests of its Members in the NSW waste industry.

WCRA’S representatives are involved in negotiations with the Union and dealings with government bodies such as the Fair Work Australia, Australian Industrial Relations Commission and the Fair Work Ombudsman on industrial issues and workplace law changes that affect our Members and the industry in general.

To assist WCRA and Members with employment relations and legal matters, WCRA has an agreement with Hunt & Hunt.

Should you require any workplace relations advice please feel free to phone us on (02) 9604-7206 or send us an email at memberservices@wcra.com.au.