12 September 2014

Fair Work Ombudsman inspectors will visit Taree and Muswellbrook, in regional NSW, to offer free workplace advice to local employers and employees.

Fair Work inspectors will be available to answer questions about pay, conditions and other aspects of workplace laws between 10am and 5pm on:

• Wednesday, 24 September, at the Taree Library, on Victoria Street, and
• Wednesday, 1 October, at the Muswellbrook Library, on Bridge Street.

Employees or employers who would like to discuss their workplace rights or obligations are advised to make an appointment by calling (02) 4979 3576.

Inspectors will have iPads to demonstrate the tools and resources available on the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website at www.fairwork.gov.au.

Website tools include PayCheck Plus to help calculate minimum pay rates for employees, an online leave calculator, templates for time-and-wages records, best practice guides and online learning courses.

Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James says the visits aim to raise awareness of national workplace laws, including the National Employment Standards and modern awards.

“A big part of the Fair Work Ombudsman’s role is to help build knowledge in the community about workplace laws and to help create fairer workplaces,” Ms James said.

“Opportunities like this where we can speak to employers and employees and help them to learn about the educative tools on our website are an important way to achieve that.”

Over the next 12 months, Fair Work inspectors will visit a number of regional towns throughout NSW that do not have access to a local Fair Work Ombudsman office.

“The aim is to provide employers and employees in regional NSW with the opportunity to ask for advice or raise any concerns about their workplace rights,” Ms James said.

Employees and employers seeking further support should get in touch with the Fair Work Ombudsman via the website, or by calling the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.

A free interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.

Follow Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James on Twitter @NatJamesFWO , the Fair Work Ombudsman @fairwork_gov_au or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/fairwork.gov.au .

Media inquiries:

Tom McPherson, Media Adviser
Mobile: 0439 835 855
tom.mcpherson@fwo.gov.au