The Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC)

Introduction

Industrial relations, as the name implies, is the engagement and interaction between those within the workplace in order to maximize the productive activities. Without industrial relations, the productivity within a workplace would stagnate, causing a series of negative effects within our Nation’s economy. Such examples would be the loss of jobs, a decrease in the general standard of living and cost of Australian exports being significantly higher. Industrial relations is essential in establishing positive relations between both the employees and employers. It acts as a foundation in maintaining and ensuring a smoother operation in businesses.

Industrial Relations in Australia

In the early 19th century, the arrival and stabilisation of the Trade Union Acts made it possible for workers to negotiate their terms and conditions with their employers. Trade unions were extremely successful in negotiating for their members. The Australian Industrial relations was for many years and still is mainly controlled by the federal Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC).

These awards would have set conditions that businesses need to meet which are reviewed from time to time by the AIRC. Should there be any disputed dismissal applications, the AIRC would have the last say in determining whether or not it is fair/unfair.
Bargaining agreements would also need to be licensed by the AIRC. These agreements are usually negotiated between the employer of the business and the Trade Union, who acts as a “voice” for the employees.

Depending on the position in a workplace, Industrial relations can have dissimilar meanings to different people. Industrial relations can be split into 4 different perspectives. Such perspectives include:
• Employees
•