As the 2025 Federal Election approaches, Australian workplaces are watching closely. Employment law, workforce compliance, and business flexibility are emerging as key battleground issues.
With both major parties offering differing visions for the future of work, the outcome of the election is likely to shape how businesses operate and how employees are protected in the years to come.
Let’s drill down on what the major parties are proposing by looking at the potential implications the federal election will have on businesses and employment law, helping you to understand possible changes and be prepared.
1. Compliance & Wage Theft Laws
– The recent criminalisation of wage theft under Labor’s Closing Loopholes Acts has reshaped employer obligations. Most states have already implemented the wage theft laws.
– A Labor re-election may lead to further enforcement and expansion of worker protections.
– A Coalition win could bring a shift toward reducing compliance burdens on employers and adjusting the current framework.
Business takeaway: Depending on the outcome, businesses should be ready to either adjust to new bargaining provisions or potentially reverse recent changes.
2. Casuals, Contractors & Gig Economy
– Labor supports a stricter test for casual employment, and stronger protections and minimum standards for gig workers.
– The Coalition typically backs greater flexibility in hiring arrangements and protections for businesses using contractors.
Business takeaway: Businesses that engage contractors or use platform-based services should stay alert to possible regulatory shifts that may affect worker classifications and increase operational costs.
3.Enterprise Bargaining & Union Access
– Labor is focused on revitalising enterprise bargaining, simplifying agreements and improving access for unions.
– The Coalition may take a more cautious approach, seeking to preserve individual workplace agreements and employer autonomy.
Business takeaway: Businesses that engage contractors or use platform-based services should stay alert to possible regulatory shifts that may affect worker classifications and increase operational costs.
4. Workplace Flexibility & Return-to-Office
– Labor supports stronger rights to request flexible work and protections for hybrid work arrangements.
– The Coalition emphasizes employer-led discretion, particularly around return-to-office mandates.
Business takeaway: Depending on the incoming government, businesses should prepare for the potential tightening or further expansion of flexible work entitlements and stay on-top of any changes in interpretation or enforcement.
5. Minimum Standards & Award System
– Labor may pursue higher minimum standards in key sectors and continued award modernisation.
– The Coalition is likely to focus on simplification and maintaining competitive settings for small to medium businesses.
Business takeaway: Anticipate different industrial relations priorities. Staying informed will be key for planning workforce and compliance strategies and remaining competitive.
The 2025 election is more than a political event – it’s a pivot point for Australia’s workforce. Whether the focus lands on protecting worker rights or enhancing business flexibility, employers must remain agile and proactive. Staying informed and monitoring legislative updates will give you the power to make informed decisions that support your people and protect your business.
