National IR system moving closer

(AAP - A uniform national workplace relations system is a step closer to reality following the introduction of legislation in the South Australian parliament.

The Rann Labor government on Wednesday introduced legislation that will see South
Australia refer power over industrial relations matters to the Commonwealth.
The introduction of legislation in the South Australian Parliament follows the
Victorian government's referral in June.
The Tasmanian government has confirmed its intention to refer its industrial
relations powers while the Queensland government has indicated in-principle support
for a national workplace relations system.
The Western Australian government has decided not to refer its remaining industrial
relations powers.
The Rudd government's Fair Work system replace the unpopular Work Choices regime
introduced under the former Howard government.
Under the Fair Work Act, unfair dismissal laws will once again apply to small
businesses, a stronger safety net applies and collective bargaining is preferred to
individual contracts.
A new and more powerful industrial umpire, Fair Work Australia, replaces the Fair
Pay Commission, while a set of 10 national employment standards from January 1.
Workplace Relations Minister Julia Gillard said the introduction of legislation into
the South Australian parliament was a vote of confidence in the new Fair Work laws.
However, the deputy prime minister remains critical of Western Australia over its
decision not to sign up to the national system.
"This decision puts Western Australia completely out of step with all other states
and territories and prevents Western Australian employers and employees from reaping
the benefits of a new national system," Ms Gillard said.
The Rudd government will introduce legislation later this year to give effect to
referrals in time for full commencement of the national system from the beginning of
2010.