In the first quarter of 2026, the Government is focused on continuing to implement its election commitments and ‘bedding down changes’ from its last term. We are however increasingly witnessing the practical impact of those amendments as unions, the Fair Work Commission and courts utilise and apply the new provisions.
Most recently it is the evolving impacts of the conflict in the Middle East on Australia's fuel supply and broader supply chains that is particularly impacting many members, including from a workplace relations perspective. We discuss how this is impacting the TWU’s various applications for minimum standards orders and road transport contractual chain orders, each of which will have a significant impact across industries.
On 27 November 2025, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Employment, Workplace Relations, Skills and Training adopted an inquiry into the operation and adequacy of the National Employment Standards, following a referral from Hon Amanda Rishworth MP. The Australian Industry Group made a submission constructively proposing a range of sensible and technical amendments, while also arguing that the review should not be a catalyst any major expansion of NES entitlements.
On 15 December 2025, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP caused a review to be conducted into the operation of amendments made to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Act 2023, the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024 and the Fair Work Amendment (Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave) Act 2022. Australian Industry Group made a submission to this review on 8 March 2026, asserting that the changes were rushed, overly complex and misdirected, while also proposing a range of amendments to address various difficulties and deficiencies in the amendments.
This podcast covers these topics and more, giving our members a timely recap on what has happened during in the first quarter of this year.
The accompanying March 2026 edition of the Significant Workplace Relations Issues Report provides further details about these matters and more.
Australian Industry Group members enjoy access to the highest quality workplace relations, health & safety, and business advice, resources and support. They are represented by a powerful voice that influences the policy changes needed for Australian industry to thrive.
To become a member of the Australian Industry Group and get access to countless resources and services to help your business please contact us or call 1300 55 66 77.
To learn more about the benefits of membership visit our Why Join page.
If you're already a member, you can log in to view this content.
With almost 300 staff and networks of relationships that extend beyond borders (domestic and international), we have the resources and expertise to meet the changing needs of our membership. We provide the practical information, advice and assistance you need to run your business.
