New state employment laws commenced on 31 January 2025.

Key changes, which were introduced by the Industrial Relations Legislation Amendment Act 2024, include:

• A new prohibition on sexual harassment in connection with work

• An increase to the state statutory minimum casual loading from 20% to 25% and a new test to determine if a worker’s employment is casual employment

• Changes determining an employment relationship

• A new enforceable minimum condition enabling employees to request a flexible working arrangement in certain circumstances

• Increased civil penalties for contravening state employment laws

Some changes to be introduced by the Industrial Relations Legislation Amendment Act 2024 have a later commencement date which has not yet been set. One of these changes will involve the improved regulation of registered industrial agents.

We are in the process of updating our website to reflect these changes where relevant. Please email registry@wairc.wa.gov.au if you have any queries about the law changes.