Master Builders Australia (MBA) is working with Government in assisting builders, subcontractors and employees better understand their rights and obligations under the Fair Work Act through a series of free seminars and information products.

Wilhelm Harnisch, the CEO of MBA said, “The Government’s workplace relations environment has changed significantly; the introduction of the Fair Work Act from 1 July 2009 and, from 1 January 2010, the National Employment Standards and modern awards are important changes for business to manage. It is important therefore that builders fully understand the new requirements, how it will affect their business and how it will affect the rights and responsibilities of employees.”

MBA recently received funding from the Australian Government for the production of nearly 70 Fair Work seminars Australia wide where materials explaining the Fair Work Act will be made available, including Fact Sheets and Best Practice Guides. Harnisch said, “Master Builders welcomes the Government funding to enable the delivery of tailored information to the building and construction industry.

I encourage all contractors, subcontractors and their staff to attend a seminar in their respective State and Territory. Understanding the requirements of the Fair Work Act, in particular agreement making and unfair dismissal, are crucial as they have been completely overhauled from the earlier law. Understanding of these provisions is important in managing the current difficult economic environment.”

The first free seminar was held in Adelaide on 7 September 2009. Information on the location of seminars and copies of the materials are available on the Fair Work page of the Master Builders web site. The 10 Fact Sheets are written in plain-English and will assist all building industry participants to understand key aspects of the new workplace relations system such as the National Employment Standards, agreement making and unfair dismissal.