The new limits on junior rates in the General Retail Industry Award 2020 will now be delayed until May 2021. The Fair Work Commission has finalised a new Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Associated Industries Award, which will commence in February 2021. The Full Federal Court has upheld a May decision on how paid leave interacts with a stand down.
Retail Junior Rates
In EMA Note 40, we reported that from February 2021 junior rates would only apply to Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the General Retail Industry Award 2020. After hearing arguments, the Fair Work Commission (“FWC”) decided to delay the change until the first pay period on or after 1 May 2021.
New Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Associated Industries Award 2020
The FWC has finalised the 4 year review of the Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Associated Industries Award, and determined that a new version of the award will commence on the first pay period on or after 1 February 2021. A variation order will be published soon.
Personal/Carer’s Leave in stand down periods
EMA Note 22 reported details of a May Federal Court decision about the interaction between stand down periods and personal leave. A Full Federal Court – in a majority ruling – has dismissed an appeal and upheld that employees stood down are generally not entitled to personal/carer’s leave or compassionate leave during stand down periods. We remind readers that this matter is complex and specific advice must be sought before refusing leave.
Require further information/assistance?
If you require further information or specific advice about your situation, please contact one of our consultants.