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The Federal Government will bring in regulation to thwart the double-dipping impact of the Skene v Workpac decision (WF 17/08/18), Industrial Relations minister Kelly O’Dwyer has confirmed on pressday.

The regulation – in lieu of legislation for now at least it seems – comes as the govt and employers go head-to-head with unions in a test case brought by Workpac in the Federal Court.

Employers hail ‘decisive action’

The Australian Mines & Metals Association (AREEA) said the regulation would support the “common understanding around this issue in Australian workplaces, ensuring there is no ‘double dipping’ if casuals are deemed to be full-time employees”.

AREEA chief executive Steve Knott said govt inaction would have significantly hurt businesses.

“Had this been allowed to stand, many SMEs and big businesses alike would’ve been crippled, not to mention the fallout which would have resulted in administrators being appointed and the significant drain on the Federal Government’s Fair Entitlements Scheme,” Knott said.