Keeping you posted

I aim to share short, informative posts on current developments and ideas in the HR space that are of practical use to employers and employees alike!

I want to make sure you always know what is happening in the world of human resources. Here I provide you with latest news and updates from Essential HR, as I identify them. This includes my own analyses, summaries of key legal developments month by month, and useful tips for your organisation.


Labour Inspector Visits

Along with many other election promises, Labour have promised more than double the current number of Labour Inspectors  in their term. So, what will that mean for you?

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Let’s do this - what will Labour deliver in their first 100 days

In terms of Employment Relations, what changes have already been passed and what can we expect to see from Labour in their 100 day plan?

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Should you go to work when sick?

Why do some people still go to work while they are sick, even if they risk spreading their germs and making others sick? The answer may be obvious if the sick leave would be unpaid; but you can do things to help your team to avoid this practice.

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Making GP’s your allies

How often is a medical certificate too vague, or a workplace assessment too general to be helpful?  How often have you heard excuses for no medical certificate? We have a relationship with a medical centre that makes these things positive.

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Are sick employees giving you a headache?

Are you at your wit's end with sick employees? You aren't alone. Here is a recap of what steps you can take when dealing with the forever errant or sickly employee.

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Medical Terminations - when is enough, enough?

When is enough, enough? When can you dismiss for medical inability? Generally, if you have been trying all you can to get the person back to work for a reasonable time and there remains no assurance that they can.  But there are steps that must be followed.

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Changes to Working Visa Requirements

From 28 August anyone employing staff on work visas in the Skilled Migrant or Essential Skills categories may find what has worked in the past may not do so now.

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Getting people Back to Work

How long does it take to get someone back to work after a longer-term accident/illness?  Make it quicker by using a Return to Work Plan.

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First sentence under the new H&S at Work Act

The 2015 Act has fined a company $100,000 for not having controls over a known risk.  And the fine would have been $275,000 if the company could pay.  

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No Work No Pay - can you do this?

It may be the weather; it may be unplanned absence, or it may simply be a lack of customers.  If you wish to be able to not pay staff for time when they aren't needed you need to get your Agreements and processes right.

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Need help managing staff?

Mike has a wealth of experience advising on every aspect of the employer-employee relationship. I can give you per-phone guidance or work along side you to make things happen.

Keeping You Posted

11 April 2024

Essential Update - 11th April 2024

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10 January 2024

Essential Update - First update of 2024

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4 December 2023

Final 2023 Essential Update

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