What are Modern Awards and why do reviews matter?
Modern Awards are in place to ensure employers and employees are following the legal requirements and conditions of employment, including employee entitlements. The Modern Awards came into effect in January 2010 and cover over 100 industries across Australia. One of the Modern Awards is the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2010, which has undergone changes this year as part of the four-yearly reviews conducted in accordance with the Fair Work Act 2009. These reviews ensure that Modern Awards, like the Hospitality Award, are reflective of the objectives of the Fair Work Act 2009. The most recent review has determined an important change for employers and employees working with the Hospitality Award in their restaurants and cafes.
The Hospitality Award changes you need to be aware of
On the 6th September 2019, new Hospitality Award changes came into effect regarding payment of employee entitlements once employment ends. The updated award states that employers in the hospitality industry will be obliged to pay out an employee’s wage, along with other entitlements, within seven days of their employment ending. This change will enable employees to receive their entitlements in a timely manner.
It’s important to note that these changes will need to be implemented by employers from the first full pay period starting on or after 6th September.
This adjustment to the Hospitality Award comes after several other changes that came into effect in July of this year, which included increases to penalty rates and allowances. Browse our other articles to keep up to date with the changes to employee and employer rights and entitlements.
For more information on awards, visit Fair Work.
