Arts sector workers - Amusement Award
What happened
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) began proceedings to vary the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award 2020. This was part of the Modern Awards Review 2023-24. The aim was to clarify roles for arts workers and to better reflect the inclusion of art work within the award. Submissions were received from several organisations including the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA), Australian Business Industrial and Business New South Wales (ABI/BNSW), and the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA).
What was decided
The FWC may vary a modern award if it is necessary to achieve the modern awards objective. The Commission can draw on its expertise and consider matters of common sense and inference, even when formal evidence is limited. The Commission recognised a need for improved clarity in the classification structure. Further consideration of the issues is ongoing.
What it means for employers
Employers covered by the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award should be aware of the FWC’s ongoing review of the award. They should be prepared for potential changes to classification structures and terminology, particularly regarding roles involving arts workers. The Commission prioritises achieving a fair and relevant safety net for employees.
What it means for employees
Employees in the amusement, events and recreation industry, particularly those in arts-related roles, may see changes to job classifications and award terminology. This aims to better recognise and define their work. The FWC considers the need to improve access to secure work and promote gender equality in the workplace.
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