Updates
Changes to workplace laws giving employees the right to switch off
Several changes to workplace laws have started (as of 26 August 2024) as part of the Closing Loopholes reforms. It’s important that you understand your new rights and responsibilities.
What you should do now
Fair Work Australia has updated its information. Check now if you or your workplace is affected.
- Casual employment changes – Rules about casual employment have changed, including how casual work is defined, pathways to permanent employment, and employee and employer responsibilities. Read more about casual employees and pathways to permanent employment.
- Right to disconnect – Employees have the right to refuse contact outside their working hours unless that refusal is unreasonable. Learn about the new right to disconnect. This doesn’t apply to small businesses and their employees until 26 August 2025.
- Independent contractor changes – If you’re a contractor or work with contractors, it’s important you understand the new definition of employment and other changes to independent contractor rules.
- Minimum standards and protections for some contractors – If you’re in the gig economy or road transport industry, find out about new minimum standards and protections for some contractors. Visit Regulated workers.
Find out more about changes already in place at Closing Loopholes.
For a visual snapshot of all the Closing Loopholes changes and when they start, check out our easy-to-read timeline.
Updated information statements
Employers must give every new employee one or more information statement when they start work. The Casual Employment Information Statement must now be provided at set times throughout a casual’s employment.
Download the updated statements here: