Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement: What You Need to Know
If you`re an employer or an employee in the Australian job market, you`ve likely come across enterprise agreements. These agreements are legally binding documents that outline terms and conditions of employment, negotiated between an employer and a group of employees (or a union representing them).
One such agreement that`s been making headlines in recent times is the Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement. This agreement, which covers employees of Valley Labour Services Pty Ltd in Victoria, has been the subject of intense scrutiny by both sides of the employment spectrum.
Here`s a closer look at what the Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement entails, and what it means for employers and employees alike.
What Is the Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement?
The Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement is a legally binding document that sets out the terms and conditions of employment for employees of Valley Labour Services Pty Ltd. The company provides a range of labour services, including recruitment, training, and management of casual and permanent staff.
The agreement was negotiated between the company and the Australian Workers Union (AWU), which represents the majority of Valley Labour Services` employees. It was approved by the Fair Work Commission in 2019.
What Does the Agreement Include?
The agreement includes a range of provisions, including wages, hours of work, leave entitlements, and job security. Some key highlights of the agreement include:
– A minimum wage of $22.34 per hour for casual employees, and $25.08 for permanent employees
– Up to 10 days of paid domestic violence leave per year
– Access to training and career development opportunities
– An agreement to consult with employees about changes to rosters or working arrangements
– A commitment to employing local workers where possible
What Are the Controversies Surrounding the Agreement?
Despite being accepted by the Fair Work Commission, the Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement has been the subject of controversy from both employers and employees.
Some employers have criticized the agreement for its strict regulations around rosters and working arrangements, which they say makes it difficult to operate a flexible workforce. Others have argued that the wage rates in the agreement are too high, making it hard for small businesses to compete.
On the other hand, some employees have criticized the agreement for not going far enough in protecting their rights. The AWU has been vocal in calling for stronger job security guarantees, as well as higher wage rates and better leave entitlements.
What Does the Future Hold for the Agreement?
As it stands, the Valley Labour Services Enterprise Agreement is set to remain in place until 2023. However, the ongoing controversies and disagreements surrounding the agreement mean that its future is far from certain.
Employers and employees alike will need to continue to monitor developments in the enterprise bargaining space, and be prepared to negotiate in good faith to achieve outcomes that work for everyone involved.