Small business operators able to rely on Fair Work Ombudsman advice

In a win for small business, the Minister for Employment Senator Eric Abetz today announced that small business operators will now be able to rely on advice from the Fair Work Ombudsman without fear of prosecution, should the information be incorrect.

The Coalition committed in its Policy to Improve the Fair Work Laws that those small business operators who receive advice from the Fair Work Ombudsman, and rely on that advice, will not be subject to prosecution by the Fair Work Ombudsman should the information be incorrect.

The Fair Work Ombudsman can provide quick and accurate advice to small business operators on pay, awards, entitlements, leave, terminations and general complaints.

“If, in good faith, callers to the Small Business Helpline follow the Fair Work Ombudsman’s advice, they will not be the subject of future penalty proceedings by the Fair Work Ombudsman should it turn out that advice was incorrect.”

“In combination with the recent announcement of priority service for small businesses who call the Ombudsman, small business operators will be able to spend less time getting advice and more time growing and supporting their enterprise.

“These two measures will deliver confidence to small business to grow, prosper and employ,” Senator Abetz concluded.

Employers can call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 between 8am and 5.30 pm weekdays to obtain free advice and assistance from a team of expert advisers. A free interpreter service is available by calling 13 14 50.

There are also a range of tools and resources available on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website at www.fairwork.gov.au/smallbusiness.