Ruling Changes Understanding of Apprentice Pay

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Ruling Changes Understanding of Apprentice…

Ruling Changes Understanding of Apprentice Pay

What changes are coming?

Earlier this year, a Federal Court case about apprentice pay could result in many employers having to back pay apprentices.

In November, the Federal Court in Brisbane dismissed claims from All Trades Queensland, Master Builders Queensland, and the Housing Industry Association that apprentices in the State should continue to be covered by a range of state-based agreements rather than the federal modern award.

This is contrary to the advice given by the Fair Work Ombudsman to Queensland businesses.

This decision could apply to apprentices who were/are covered by a State-based award who work in the following industries:

Cookery
Auto
Manufacturing
Electrical
Hairdressing
Carpentry
Other industries

Click here to read the entire Federal Court decision.

This decision means employers may now be considered to have underpaid first and second-year apprentices and will have to pay back the difference regarding entitlements owed between 2014 and today.

Advice to date is that businesses should do their due diligence and assess the potential backpay that could apply to past and current employees in your business and be ready for claims.

The decision is a reminder that workplace law is not static and business owners must be continuously vigilant in understanding changes to their obligations on entitlements, award rates and records.

If you are unsure if you’re meeting your obligations, please contact CCIQ Employer Assistance on 1300 135 822 or email advice@cciq.com.au.

Author: Carrick Aland

https://carrickaland.com.au/

Carrick Aland is QLD’s leading Rural and Small Business Financial Specialists helping the region thrive with accounting, tax, audit and wealth planning advice to individuals, businesses and farming families. With offices in Dalby, Toowoomba and Chinchilla, Carrick Aland Group is comprised of Carrick Aland Accountants, Carrick Aland Wealth Planning, Queensland Audit Services and Intuitive Super.

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