Amanda Stewart
Director of Wellbeing

The National Return to Work Strategy (2020-2030) by Safe Work Australia, has been designed to improve return-to-work outcomes across Australia for workers who have sustained a work-related injury or illness. Annually, over 500,000 Australians are affected, costing the economy an estimated $61.8 billion. Collar® places a strong emphasis on the well-being of its employees during the recovery process. This commitment is evident through our provision of mental health support, transparent communication with all stakeholders, and the promotion of a positive health and safety workplace culture, aligning with the strategy's decade-long vision.

Jamie Mallinder
Director of Health & Safety

Heading into the final months of 2023, we're witnessing a pivotal shift in workplace priorities, emphasising the crucial role of psychosocial wellbeing. With new regulations coming into effect, our responsibility extends beyond physical to mental health. At Collar®, we've been proactive, designing purpose-driven e-learning and offering accredited Mental Health First Aid training. These initiatives are more than strategic moves; they're a testament to our unwavering commitment to wellbeing. Every individual deserves a supportive and psychologically safe environment to thrive

Emma Sewell
Director of HR & IR

In late 2023, it's crucial for businesses to stay updated on evolving workplace regulations. 

Businesses should prepare for:

1. Complex Compliance Dynamics: expect intricate 'multi-factor' tests to determine worker status. Distinguishing between casual, contractor, or employee-like status will require keen understanding.
2. Industry-specific Shifts: road transport and digital labor platforms are set for transformative changes with the introduction of comprehensive minimum standards and collective bargaining nuances.
3. Union Resurgence: unions now hold a central position in the IR system, with reinforced rights and pivotal roles in new jurisdictions.
4. Financial Implications: the potential for “same job, same pay” mandates could reshape engagement strategies with labor hire and contractors, affecting cost structures and profitability.
   
   

Australia's industrial relations framework stands at the threshold of a new era.

Jamie Lewis
Director of QLD

As the new financial year kicked off, we noticed a shift towards more permanent hires in all sectors. However, due to the persistent skills shortage, there's been a surge in temporary roles to bridge the gap while organisations continue their search for permanent placements.

Specifically, in the Sunshine Coast region, we're facing a notable shortage of Healthcare professionals. With a high number of active vacancies, this has resulted in an increased demand for higher rates.

Additionally, candidates are fielding multiple offers, leading to more rejections of permanent positions. Job Skills Australia's recent skills shortage update for June 2023 confirms this trend, with a notable increase in employed individuals and a low unemployment rate of 3.5%. The employment-to-population ratio stands strong at 64.5%, indicating a competitive landscape for talent acquisition.

Emmah O'Connel
Adelaide Branch Manager

Adelaide's labor market is in a phase of dynamic growth, with an employment rate of 77.4%. The youth unemployment rate is notably low at 8.6%, indicating a promising landscape for young professionals. This thriving market offers opportunities and stability, making it an exciting time for job seekers and employers alike.

Peter Dais
Director of VIC

Transitioning to face-to-face meetings in 2023 is not just a shift, but a strategic move towards creating genuine connections. In-person interviews pave the way for assessing cultural fit, a crucial factor in today's evolving business landscape. This shift in focus, especially in recruitment, is reshaping the way we hire. Embracing this shift isn't just smart; it's the future of recruitment.