The potential impact of the Workplace Relations and other Legislation Amendment Act 1996 on Indigenous employees

Abstract

The Workplace Relations and other Legislation Amendment Act 1996 attempts to expedite reform of the industrial relations system and increase flexibility of workplaces seeking to compete in the international market place. This paper provides a detailed guide to the legislation with a particular focus on its likely impact on Indigenous workers. The potential equity concerns arising from the operationalisation of the provisions of the Act should be weighed against the potential employment gains from improved macroeconomic performance or the increased flexibility of workplaces. Unfortunately, the lack of data on the articulation of the interests of Indigenous workers within the industrial relations system severely limits the depth of the analysis. Notwithstanding such shortcomings, the entrenched disadvantage experienced by Indigenous workers means that they may not be in a position to avail themselves of any employment gains in the wider community. Show more