Two steps forward, one step back: Industrial relations developments in australia in 1997

Abstract

Industrial relations developments during 1997 have, for the most part, been consistent with the decentralist thrust that has characterized the process of industrial relations reform in Australia over the last decade. Nevertheless, the pace of reform during 1997 has not been as rapid as many may have hoped (or feared). This article provides a review of the key industrial relations devel opments during the past year, especially the operation of the Workplace Rela tions Act 1996, which only became law on 31 December 1996. It is concluded that while the Act has assisted in promoting an environment in which there are greater opportunities for more direct relationships between employees and employ..