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.


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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Pay Equity Update

Pay Equity issues are being raised politically.  There's been no real development yet, and I will speak when it goes to Committee.  Watch this space.

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Availability Clauses

These are required under the last round of legislation if you want to be able to require someone to work at times only when you need them.

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Bullying Becomes Bigger

Everyone is becoming more aware of bullying and its degrading impact.  From people  to the Courts.  A recent case awarded total costs of $98,000!  You don't need to bully to manage - it's time to learn the difference.

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Staff Motivation – healthy staff are happy staff

In this article I set out four ideas for getting happier (and more productive) staff.  Allowing rest, de-stressing, health checks and a good environment.  Are you a chicken or an egg?

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Wage Increases

Minimum Wage rates will increase by 3.2% on 1 April - going to $15.75 per hour.  December CPI shows overall CPI increases over the past year at 1.3%. It's time to plan!

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Employees, Contractors and Volunteers

MBIE are challenging whether volunteers and contractors are actually employees.  They may be considered so more often than you think.  You may contravene Immigration as well as Employment laws.

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Interesting Court Cases

Can you move your business and force an employee to travel further?  Just how much may the Courts fine if we just have a minor procedural flaw in a termination?  Can you deduct from a final pay where the employee has not given any notice?  ... for answers

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Harmful Digital Communications

Harmful Digital Communications became a criminal offence in 2016.  Be careful any online content you host does not allow for this.

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Penalties for breach of Minimum Standards

Two companies were fined $100,000 for breaching minimum wages and leave record requirements.  If in doubt check in with us - better a $50 phone call than a $50,000 fine!

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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

30 May 2024

Essential Update May 2024

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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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