The Andrews Government now has six significant reforms underway that will impact Victorian business. These include commitments to introduce criminal penalties for business (not employees) for workplace manslaughter, criminal penalties for underpayment of wages and entitlements, a Fair Jobs Code adding regulation to any business wanting to engage with the state, the on-demand economy inquiry, which may lead to regulation affecting all businesses employing contract or casual workers, and the rollout of the Labour Hire Authority and portable long service leave scheme. 

Earlier this month, the Fair Work Ombudsman concluded its investigation into Uber Australia and its engagement of drivers, or partners as the sector often uses. The Ombudsman concluded that “…weight of evidence from our investigation establishes that the relationship between Uber Australia and the drivers is not an employment relationship.” This means that the Ombudsman will not take action against Uber in relation to wages and conditions. 

This is not the end of the story. Victoria’s inquiry into the on-demand economy is likely to explore regulatory approaches outside the Fair Work Act. As mentioned previously, the Victorian Chamber will continue to advocate in the interests of business affected by this inquiry. 

In other news, on Friday 19 July 2019, Victoria University (VU) will showcase its expertise to industry as part of our ignite series – a ground breaking collaboration between the Victorian Chamber, the state's leading universities and the Victorian Government. ignite brings together business leaders with universities in bespoke partnerships to research, develop and commercialise innovative products, services, business models and processes.

At ignite+VU, the university will present on its work surrounding mental health, physical activity and body image. Victoria is currently leading the way with the recent Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and Victoria University is at the forefront of research and best practice. 

Poor mental health is a huge individual, social and economic problem, and with denser urbanisation, ingrained social media use and increasingly sedentary lives, it is worsening. Join us at ignite+VU and hear from several of the university’s preeminent women researchers in these areas: Professor Alexandra Parker, Assoc. Professor Melinda Craike and Dr Siân McLean. We hope to see you there. 

P.S. Don’t risk 20 years in jail. If you haven’t already responded, please let the Attorney-General know your views on the proposed workplace manslaughter laws.