The Fair Work Commission have recently adapted the Hospitality General Award 2010 in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. It is expected that more modern award changes will follow in the coming weeks.
Our employment lawyers at Gordon Legal want to break down these changes to assist you. Please be aware: the below is helpful information and not official legal advice.
What is a modern award?
Modern awards are legal documents that outline the minimum pay rates and conditions for those that are covered by them. Coverage under modern awards for employees is generally industry specific and linked to the type of work you perform. Modern awards are made by the Fair Work Commission and you can find a copy of your modern award at www.fwc.gov.au.
What has changed in the Hospitality General Award?
On 24 March 2020, the Fair Work Commission modified the Hospitality General Award by inserting a new schedule L.
Schedule L will apply from 24 March 2020 until 30 June 2020. It may be extended.
The effect of the changes in summary are:
This might mean that an employer can ask you to do lesser skilled duties than what you ordinarily perform during this time. If you are asked to do higher skilled duties then you (provided it extends for more than 2 hours) might be entitled to a higher rate of pay for performing those duties.
Before any changes are made of this nature there is a requirement for there to be consultation with you and your union if you have one.
If you are affected by this change then you will be entitled to accrue your personal and annual leave as if you were working the old hours.
These changes are significant and might have an impact upon your employment arrangements. If in doubt, you should seek advice about the changes.
To seek legal advice about Modern Awards and Coronavirus, contact Gordon Legal on: 1300 59 95 17.
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