Read about the Fair Work Ombudsman’s role in supporting workers and businesses in the building and construction sector, including guidance on entitlements, workplace protections, and the role of unions with a particular focus on apprentices and trainees in the industry.
Supporting the building and construction industry: how the Fair Work Ombudsman can help
As the national workplace relations regulator, the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) provides information, education and advice on pay rates and workplace rights and obligations. The FWO also enforces compliance with the Fair Work Act, related legislation, awards and registered agreements.
Building and construction are one of the FWO’s key priority sectors, and their website offers guidance, support, and practical assistance to both employers and workers on a range of issues specific to the sector, including:
entitlements under the National Employment Standards, awards and registered agreements
the role of unions, right of entry, freedom of association and industrial action.
The FWO can help with workplace sexual harassment issues, including investigating non-compliance with the prohibition of workplace sexual harassment under the Fair Work Act and taking action when someone doesn’t comply with a Fair Work Commission stop sexual harassment order. The FWO can also commence civil court proceedings for alleged breaches of workplace sexual harassment laws.
The FWO offers regular webinars covering topics for all workplace participants, they are free and recorded if you can’t attend the livestream. Information and registration can be found on the FWO website.
Apprentices and trainees
The FWO also assists vulnerable members of the sector who may need support navigating workplace rights and entitlements such as apprentices and trainees.
The FWO's Guide to starting an apprenticeship explains what apprentices can expect from an apprenticeship along with practical tips and checklists to make sure they’re well informed about their workplace rights and entitlements.
Information in-language
Visa holders and migrant workers have the same workplace rights and protections as all other employees in Australia. Information is available on the FWO’s website in multiple languages to ensure visa holders and migrant workers understand their legal minimum rights and can access help in their language when they need it.
Follow the FWO
The FWO has practical tools and resources to ensure you understand your rights, obligations and entitlements. For more information, visit fairwork.gov.au/building
