1. Record Number of Workers Covered by Union Agreements
Source: The Australian Financial Review, July 8, 2025
Summary: Australia has seen a record-high number of workers now covered by enterprise agreements, with union-negotiated deals up 12% year-on-year. Sectors leading the surge include resources, retail, and health. This trend is placing upward pressure on wages, leave entitlements, and rostering flexibility, especially in WA mining and construction.
Why It Matters: Signals rising labour costs and stronger union leverage in upcoming EBA negotiations.
2. BHP Approves Landmark IR Deal for WA Iron Ore Workforce
Source: WA Today, July 6, 2025
Summary: BHP has signed off on a multi-year agreement covering over 3,500 iron ore workers in the Pilbara. The deal includes 15% wage increases over 3 years, enhanced FIFO mental health supports, and mandatory Indigenous cultural training.
Why It Matters: Major precedent in WA’s mining sector with flow-on expectations across other resources employers.
3. Fair Work Commission Cracks Down on Rostering Practices
Source: Workplace Express, July 9, 2025
Summary: A recent ruling from the FWC deemed certain “flexible rostering arrangements” unlawful, stating they lacked sufficient employee consultation. The case originated from a WA-based logistics employer and is expected to affect casual and shift workers across industries.
Why It Matters: Highlights the increasing scrutiny on roster and scheduling compliance—especially under recent Fair Work Act amendments.
4. McDonald’s Faces Fresh Legal Action Over Alleged Wage Theft
Source: ABC News, July 7, 2025
Summary: A new class action alleges McDonald’s systematically underpaid thousands of young workers by denying paid 10-minute breaks. The Retail and Fast Food Workers Union is leading the charge, with Western Australian stores named in filings.
Why It Matters: High-profile case with national media attention; reinforces the need for HR audits of award compliance in fast food and retail sectors.
5. WA Government Launches Review of FIFO Worker Conditions
Source: The West Australian, July 9, 2025
Summary: The WA State Government has commissioned a panel to review psychosocial risks in FIFO operations, including sexual harassment, mental health, and family separation impacts. Submissions will open in late July.
Why It Matters: Regulatory changes could follow, with implications for HR policy, wellbeing programs, and safety obligations.
