To help prevent exploitation of vulnerable workers, the Fair Work Ombudsman has launched a new resource to assist franchisors in promoting workplace compliance.
Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James launched the document ‘Guide to promoting workplace compliance in your franchise network’ yesterday (June 14) and emphasised the steps a franchisor can take to prevent workplace issues and avoid liability.
“A franchisor sets the tone for its network and needs to consider the capability and sophistication of its franchisees in managing its risks and deciding how to go about providing franchisee support,” she said.
“The law states a franchise will not be liable for underpayments where it can show it has taken ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent this from occurring.
“The term ‘reasonable’ by its very nature requires that the particular business and its circumstances determine the expectations and the sorts of actions required, and this is where the guide is a great resource.”
The guide outlines useful strategies that head franchisors can implement to promote compliance with workplace laws in their networks.
“Workplace compliance is a compulsory requirement for any business,” Ms James said. “The guide sets out four practical steps franchisors should be taking, and recommends a variety of strategies to help franchisors manage their workplace compliance risks now and into the future.”
View the guide at www.fairwork.gov.au/franchisors
