Australia's Labor government will introduce legislation to close 'loopholes' in workplace law, a move opposed by employer groups fearing higher costs, when parliament returns on Monday.
Bicycle delivery couriers wait for orders at a restaurant in Sydney, Australia, August 9, 2021. REUTERS/Loren Elliott/File PhotoSYDNEY, Sept 3 - Australia's Labor government will introduce legislation to close "loopholes" in workplace law, a move opposed by employer groups fearing higher costs, when parliament returns on Monday.
Workplace Minister Tony Burke said on Sunday he would introduce the bill making it a criminal offence to deliberately underpay workers, with a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail and a maximum fine of A$7.8 million .Details of the legislation have not been released.
He said on Sunday in an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation the impact on business would be minimal, although "there are some people who will have to pay more". Businesses with fewer than 15 employees would be exempt from some provisions, he said in a statement. Business Council of Australia Chief Executive Jennifer Westacott called proposed changes "unworkable" on Friday, telling Sky News, "It's going to add to cost, add to complexity, make it harder to get casual work, make it harder to employ people".
The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has said the law will restrict independent contracting and threaten the viability of online food delivery and rideshare services.
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