The Government has proposed 32 changes to the Employment Relations Act 2000. Depending on your point of view it might be seen as fine tuning, tinkering or meddling.

Some of these changes have been well signalled by the Government in the lead up to their election in 2008 whilst other changes are new.

See all the proposed changes at http://beehive.govt.nz/sites/all/files/WILK_Backgrounder.pdf

Otherwise here are some of the main points along with two changes to the Holidays Act 2003:

• Establishing a code around disciplinary and dismissal processes that will provide for more certainty for both employers and employees.
• Allowing mediation with the Dept. of Labour without representation.(This proposal will require more careful consideration and debate)
• Extend the current 90 day trial period to all employers
• Require the Employment Relations Authority to act more judicially. (This might mean more lawyers, litigation and cost)
• An increase in penalties to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for companies and individuals.
• Union access to a workplace be conditional on the employers consent which should not be unreasonably with held.
• Allow employers to communicate directly with employees during collective bargaining.

HOLIDAYS ACT 2003

• Allow employees to request to cash in their 4th weeks holiday.
• An easier method of calculating leave payments.