Shows
The HR Cartel Podcast(090) 2025 In Review & What to Expect in 2026Episode 90 reviews the year and outlines major workplace risks ahead for employers, focusing on wage theft legislation, Fair Work Ombudsman actions, and mounting payroll compliance challenges.
Tim discusses upcoming changes, Payday Super, the NES review (including potential reproductive leave and reduced work hours), the rise in compliance burdens, and how businesses may respond with redundancies, offshoring, and technology.
Practical steps and cautionary examples are offered for small and medium businesses to prepare for investigations, undertakings, and the shifting relationship between unions, government and industry in 2026.
Show links:
Donations to th...
2025-12-1157 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(089) Australian Industrial Relations: The Slow Erosion of Business AutonomyIn this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, we lift the lid on the quiet war being waged against small and medium-sized business owners across Australia. From absurd legal decisions to bureaucratic red tape and a national narrative that assumes employers are always the villain, the warning signs are everywhere.
We break down what’s happening in real-time: how workplace tribunals, regulators, courts, and unions are moving in lockstep, whether intentionally or not, to stack the odds against you. I talk about the fear, the silence, and the slow erosion of business autonomy as employers get buried un...
2025-11-2135 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(088) Paul Doherty on Building Business & Navigating Challenges in AustraliaWe chat at length with HR Cartel Member, Founder & Director of PD Project Delivery, Paul Doherty. We discuss the realities of starting a business, building a team, and the difficulties of the changing "Director" role every business owner faces with growth and success. We discuss the amazing opportunities all people in Australia have at their fingertips, and what kind of attitude passion and drive is needed to succeed in the workplace and in business.
Show Links:
Paul Doherty LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-doherty-69501249/
PD Project Delivery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pdp...
2025-11-061h 06The HR Cartel Podcast(087) Is it now impossible to be an Aussie employer, without breaking the law?We answer the question: Is it now impossible to be an Aussie employer, without breaking the law?
The answer is frightening.
We also discuss some of the most recent absurdities, like an employee receiving Qld Long Service after working just 11 days in the State AND being declined for it in Victoria.
A summary and clarity on the $1B underpayment issue for Coles and Woollies and what it means for the rest of us.
Plus some more ridiculousness we all need to know.
Want to Join the Cartel? Of course you d...
2025-10-1732 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(086) Not Even BHP Can Survive Australia's IR System; What About SMEs?Australia’s workplace rules just changed and the cost for small business is about to skyrocket.
Tim breaks down award wage hikes, the court ruling that makes annual salaries unpredictable, and why BHP’s 750 job cuts are a warning sign for every SME. Get the steps you must take now to protect your business before the next wave of IR changes hits.
Want to know more about The HR Cartel? https://www.hrcartel.com/
Download our Free Industrial Relations Forecast: https://www.hrcartel.com/2025-industrial-relations-forecast
Want advice? go to https://www.hr...
2025-09-1744 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(085) Leftist & Socialist Coordinated Attack or Conspiracy? Why Australian Employers Are Under SiegeIn this episode, we unpack the growing sense of a coordinated siege against Australian employers. From government policies, to meddling in tribunal proceedings, to blocking employer's seeking support from the Commission, to union campaigns, tribunals operating with selective transparency, and regulators who appear increasingly activist. Small to medium-sized business owners are finding themselves in a storm of compounding pressure.
We break down:
Why many employers are losing trust in the Fair Work system
The dangerous precedent set by recent Qantas and franchise wage cases
How workplace regulators are treating compliance errors...
2025-09-1042 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(084) Be On Alert! Union Handed a $50M Pay Day!In this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, we break down one of the most talked-about industrial relations cases in recent history; the Qantas outsourcing saga that led to a staggering $90 million penalty, including a $50 million pay out to the Transport Workers Union.
We unpack what really happened behind the headlines:
Why Qantas’ decision to outsource was technically legal and yet they still lost.
How the reverse onus system empowered the TWU to pursue the case without concrete evidence.
Why this judgment has supercharged incentives for unions and law firms to run...
2025-08-2825 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(083) Right to Disconnect Under Review. Why More Guidelines Will Hurt SMEs (And What to Do Instead)In this episode Tim breaks down the Productivity Roundtable and two hot-button IR reviews that matter to every small and medium employer: the part-time employment review and the “right to disconnect.” Tim explains why rigid minimum-engagement rules are locking potential workers out of the labour market, why more prescriptive right-to-disconnect rules would be pointless, and what practical, low-pain changes employers and the Fair Work Commission should adopt. You’ll also get Tim’s tactical guidance on using remuneration and incentives to drive performance. The HR Cartel has put to the Commission submissions for their reviews - available at the show lin...
2025-08-2225 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(082) Employers Under Siege: Chaos in the Commission, and a Country in DeclineIn this punchy episode, Tim returns to unload on the recent chaos in Australia’s industrial relations scene. With a sharp eye on what’s happening at the Fair Work Commission, the Productivity Roundtable, and the growing overreach of regulators, Tim calls it as he sees it: a system that is increasingly hostile to employers, especially small and medium-sized ones.
From the hypocritical decisions made by Fair Work to the clueless signs from government on the real productivity crisis, this episode rips through the noise and exposes just how disorganised and misaligned Australia’s workplace system has become...
2025-08-0738 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(081) Same Job, Same Pay & The Commission's Blatant HypocrisyIn this week’s episode, I break down the Fair Work Commission’s $66 million decision against BHP under the new “Same Job, Same Pay” legislation, and what it really means for every other employer in Australia. While this case targeted a mining giant, it’s the thousands of small and medium businesses who’ll feel the ripple effects. I unpack how the ACTU’s political powerplay has reshaped the workforce, how misguided Fair Work commentary is throwing fuel on the fire, and why this kind of decision is the death knell for employer-led productivity. Whether you agree with BHP’s model or not...
2025-07-1029 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(080) Common Sense Wins: The Commission Pushes Back on Woke OverreachThis week, Tim dives into a Fair Work Commission decision that, thankfully, was a win for common sense. After a council worker pushed back on being forced to participate in an Acknowledgement of Country at a routine pre-start meeting, Traditional Corporate HR jumped into overdrive with a misconduct process that ended in termination. But the Commission disagreed. This episode unpacks why the decision matters, how it protects employees from ideological overreach, and the growing concern of activist HR professionals turning workplaces into compliance traps. It’s a warning, a reminder, and a turning point. Employers, leaders, and employees: listen cl...
2025-07-0425 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(079) How I Would Re-Design Australia’s IR Framework, if I were PM.In this episode, Tim Dive lays out his blueprint for an Australian industrial relations overhaul, as if he were Prime Minister. Drawing on recent government overreach (5,000+ new rules in three years) and the Fair Work Commission’s tone-deaf stance toward small employers, Tim proposes splitting the Commission into a Small Business Division (≤50 staff) and a Big Business Division, mandating productivity-impact reviews for every Award change, and restricting Union bargaining to larger firms, while preserving workers’ safety-nets and genuine right to representation. He explains how this model would unleash innovation, simplify compliance, and drive real productivity gains for companies of all si...
2025-06-2532 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(078) Embrace the Commission’s Challenge: Fix Your Productivity NowIn this episode, we look at a perfect example of employee entitlement, and explore COST - including above-inflation wage rises handed down by the Fair Work Commission. We expose the cost pressures threatening nearly every small and medium business in Australia, and explore the warnings from recent fair work decisions about offshore contracting traps. We also reveal the untapped flexibility hidden in modern awards. You’ll learn how to consult your workforce before reshaping roles, and practical steps like probationary redundancies, and smarter supplier categorisation to gain more bang for every payroll buck. Tune in, arm yourself with clear-cut st...
2025-06-1331 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(077) The Mid-Year HR & Industrial Relations Report & Forecast - Get PreparedIn this mid-year update, Tim dives deep into the shifting sands of Australian industrial relations. With wage rises, gender-based award adjustments, superannuation hikes, and a flood of new IR regulations hitting small and medium-sized employers, it’s never been more critical to know exactly what’s coming and how to prepare. Tim breaks down the Fair Work Commission’s recent wage decision, owns a learning curve on gender-based award increases, and highlights looming threats from wage theft criminalisation and sham contracting to Greens Party policy drives for shorter workweeks and paid leave for casuals. He also exposes a surge in Fai...
2025-06-0454 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(076) Wage Rises, Shutdowns, and Union Power: What Employers Must Know NowIn this raw and unfiltered episode, we take a hard look at the current landscape for Australian employers. From record-high insolvencies in hospitality and construction to the mounting pressures of wage rises and legislation changes, the real cost of doing business in 2025 is becoming clearer, and more dangerous.
We break down alarming statements from Fair Work Commission leadership, unpack the ideology dominating Australia’s IR system, and explain how it impacts your ability to run, grow, or even retain staff in your business. You’ll hear why so many small business owners are worried, and why they’re rig...
2025-05-2329 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(075) Cost & Productivity: Extreme Measures Faced by Thousands of Australian BusinessesIn this episode of the HR Cartel, host Tim Dive dives deep into the reality facing Australian business owners post-election. With a government that shows no signs of lifting the cost burden on small and medium-sized employers, Tim breaks down the pressing challenges and what business leaders must now do to survive.
From skyrocketing wage costs and new criminal liabilities under wage theft laws, to the real-world implications of workplace performance management, this episode is a must-listen for every employer, manager, and HR lead trying to navigate the current IR landscape.
If you've found yourself...
2025-05-1432 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(074) Employer gets a "win" in $120M Non-Compete Case, Labor’s Next IR Move & What Employers Need to Do NowIn this explosive episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive dives deep into a high-stakes restraint of trade case where an ex-employee tried to take $120M worth of tender intel to a direct competitor, and the courts actually stepped in.
📌 Interim restraint orders were granted—three months after the employee had already jumped ship, proving that restraint clauses can work… when they’re written properly.
But just as courts begin backing employers, the current government is moving to wipe out restraint clauses for 90% of Australian workers.
So what now?
Tim unpacks:
2025-05-0238 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(073) 10 Macro, Micro, and Policy Adjustments Employers are Using to Cut Costs and Reduce Risk, Right NowEpisode 073: The 10 Adjustments Employers Are Making to Survive the Next 12-24 Months
In this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive breaks down the real-world moves smart employers are making right now to tackle rising costs, productivity loss, and compliance risks in an increasingly hostile business environment.
With union wish lists becoming law, wage theft risks on the rise, and Fair Work changes biting hard, the next year won’t be easy for small and medium business owners.
So how do you stay afloat—without sacrificing your people or your performance?
Tim...
2025-04-2440 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(072) Activism Has Infected the Fair Work Commission; And You’re Paying for It“Activism in the Fair Work Commission: A Wake-Up Call for Employers”
In this firecracker episode, we take the gloves off and call out an alarming trend: ideological activism embedded in the Fair Work Commission and Fair Work Ombudsman.
With a controversial decision just handed down, targeting modern awards through the lens of gender-based undervaluation, we ask the tough questions no one else is willing to:
Is the Commission becoming a political weapon?
Are employers being punished in the name of “equality”?
Who really ends up paying for 30–64% award wage hikes? (Spoiler: it’s you...
2025-04-1725 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(071) Australia’s Leading Entrepreneur, Phillip Di Bella, Joins The HR Cartel for a No-BS Chat.In this raw and unfiltered episode, Tim Dive sits down with one of Australia’s most successful entrepreneurs, Phillip Di Bella; founder of Di Bella Coffee and The Coffee Commune, and passionate advocate for small business.
Together, they cut through the noise and dive deep into the real state of play for business owners in Australia. From red tape and rising costs, to leadership mindset and why trust in government is fading, nothing is off limits.
This is not your average business podcast episode. It’s a straight-talking, truth-telling convo between two people who live and...
2025-04-0259 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(070) No More Non-Compete: What Happens When Employees Can Walk Away With Your Business?"The Non-Compete Chaos & What It Really Means for Small Business"
In this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive delivers a raw and unfiltered breakdown of the recent and proposed workplace legislation changes that could drastically shift how small and medium-sized businesses operate in Australia. From the alarming plans to outlaw non-compete clauses to the ever-growing influence of unions, this episode cuts through the noise to ask one key question: who is really protecting the employer?
Tim dives into:
The true implications of removing non-compete clauses
How small businesses are...
2025-03-2830 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(069) The Real Cost of Compliance and Admin Burden Crushing Employers Right NowIn this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim breaks down the real impact of the current Labor government’s workplace law reforms. Small and medium businesses are facing an unprecedented compliance burden, extra admin, higher operational costs, and serious risks for directors and managers. Tim cuts through the noise to show you exactly what’s changed, why it matters, and how it’s affecting business owners, leaders and managers. If you lead an Australian business with under 200 employees, this is for you.
💡 Learn how to protect your business, your board, and yourself in this new era of compli...
2025-03-1334 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(068) Standing Down Employees & Other Options during TC AlfredWith Tropical Cyclone Alfred looming off the coast, businesses across Queensland and Northern NSW are scrambling to prepare—not just for the storm, but for the workforce challenges that come with it.
In this audio-only, remote episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive cuts through the confusion surrounding stand-down provisions, temporary shutdowns, and employer obligations during extreme weather events. With misinformation circulating, many business owners are unsure of their rights and options when it comes to managing their workforce in unpredictable conditions.
What you'll learn in this episode:
✔️ Stand-down vs. Temporary Shutdown – What’s t...
2025-03-0514 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(067) Successful or Barely Surviving? The Scorecard That Could Change Your Business ForeverIn this episode of The HR Cartel, host Tim Dive discusses the evolving workplace compliance landscape in Australia. With the increasing complexities of regulations and the growing administrative burden on small and medium-sized businesses, Tim discusses the critical need for businesses to shift from mere compliance to strategic success.
He explores:
The Fair Work Commission's shifting dynamics, including the impact of leadership changes and union influence.
How businesses can protect themselves from new laws and legal risks.
The importance of leadership development, workforce training, and mentoring future leaders.
Why small and medium-sized businesses need an internal...
2025-02-2128 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(066) The Critical Choices Facing Small & Medium Business Owners in 2025As we charge into 2025, the challenges for Australian small and medium-sized businesses continue to grow. In this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, host Tim Dove breaks down the key decisions business owners must make to stay ahead in an increasingly complex and high-risk environment.
From the criminalisation of wage theft to skyrocketing labour costs, stricter compliance requirements, and economic uncertainty, businesses are facing a landscape that demands proactive adaptation. Tim discusses:
HR & IR Compliance Risks – How new laws, including wage theft criminalisation, are increasing liability for business owners.
Rising Business Costs & Economic Pressures – The impact of l...
2025-02-1230 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(065) Risk Free Employee Terminations & Cutting CostIs there such a thing as a risk-free termination? Not exactly—but there are smarter, safer ways to approach it. In this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive breaks down the termination types that carry the least risk for employers, from probation periods and the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code to redundancies and high-income earners.
But that’s not all. With small and medium-sized businesses under immense pressure—rising costs, regulatory overload, and insolvencies hitting record highs—Tim also unpacks how businesses can cut workforce costs strategically to avoid administration while staying compliant with Australia’s heavily...
2025-02-0629 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(064) Busting the Biggest Myths About Small Business in 2025Welcome back to The HR Cartel Podcast, and welcome to 2025, the most compliance-heavy, regulator-driven era we’ve ever seen for small and medium-sized businesses in Australia.
In this episode, we're busting some of the biggest small business myths that are holding owners and leaders back, including some that could cost you big money, land you in legal trouble, or even shut you down.
Think small businesses don’t need HR systems? Think again. Believe employees care as much as you do? They don’t, and that’s okay. Assume you won’t get sued? Small businesses...
2025-01-2928 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(063) Wage Theft: Fines & Jail Time - Are You Ready?Welcome to 2025, where wage theft is now a criminal offense! In this episode of the HR Cartel Podcast, Tim dives deep into the newly implemented Wage Theft laws under the Fair Work Act. With potential fines reaching millions and the looming risk of jail time, Tim breaks down the Voluntary Small Business Wage Compliance Code to help employers understand what’s required to stay on the right side of the law.
From avoiding underpayment pitfalls to staying proactive with audits and reliable advice, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips for small and medium-sized business ow...
2025-01-1530 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(062) 2024: Unions self-destructed, SMEs barely survive, we need an election in 2025.In this episode of the HR Cartel Podcast, host Tim Dive takes a reflective look at 2024, a year he describes as "historic" for workplace relations in Australia. Tim dives deep into the seismic shifts driven by union advancements, legislative overhauls, and the unexpected unraveling of the modern union movement. From the challenges small and medium businesses face in navigating complex laws to the critical role SMEs play in driving innovation and growth, Tim shares his unfiltered insights and hopes for 2025. Plus, he introduces the HR Cartel platform, a game-changer designed to empower SMEs. Don’t miss this compelling episode pa...
2024-12-2020 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(061) Unions Unleashed: A Wake-Up Call for Australians & Small BusinessesIn this episode of the HR Cartel podcast, Tim dives headfirst into the current state of union activities in Australia and the impact they have on small and medium-sized businesses. From multi-employer bargaining to the Woolworths saga, Tim dissects how unions' actions are driving up costs, complicating regulations, and exposing the true colours of the labour movement.
With a passionate and no-holds-barred approach, Tim highlights how recent union moves—like their push for 41 new amendments and solidarity pickets—are holding not just businesses but everyday Australians hostage. This is a must-listen for business owners navigating the high-risk indu...
2024-12-0427 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(060) The SME of 2025: Thriving in a High-Regulation, High-Risk EraTim discusses the challenges, and opportunities, small and medium-sized businesses will face in 2025. With a high-regulation, high-cost environment on the horizon, Tim outlines what businesses must prioritize to not only survive but thrive.
From the critical importance of compliance in light of new wage theft laws, to strategies for employee retention, engagement, and leveraging technology, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tim also challenges listeners to rethink workplace flexibility and remote working, and emphasizes the power of being proactive rather than reactive in this rapidly changing landscape.
Tim leaves listeners with a powerful question...
2024-11-2928 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(059) Wage theft traps that most SMEs are likely committing right now.In this episode, we dig into the latest developments in wage theft and compliance for small to medium-sized businesses. With the Fair Work Ombudsman set to enforce new, stricter wage theft laws from January 2025, Tim shares insights on how employers need to prepare, highlighting potential risks and liabilities for business owners, HR teams, and even individual managers.
We break down a recent podcast from the Fair Work Ombudsman’s team and challenge the notion that small businesses are adequately equipped to manage complex compliance requirements alone. Tim stresses the importance of proactive communication, compliance audits, and understanding te...
2024-11-1226 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(058) Work from home injuries & compensation pay outsTim Dive delves into a new legal case that holds employers liable for employees’ injuries while working from home. He explores how this decision reshapes the risks of flexible and remote work arrangements and warns that vague policies and unchecked “work-from-anywhere” setups will certainly leave businesses vulnerable. Tim shares practical tips for employers to safeguard themselves by creating detailed policies on work-from-home protocols and managing liability. Tune in to learn how to protect your business in the evolving landscape of remote work!
www.hrcartel.com
2024-10-3020 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(057) Fair Work's Target Industries for 2025 Revealed!In this latest podcast episode, Tim Dive breaks down key findings from the Fair Work Ombudsman’s latest reports, highlighting the industries that will face significant scrutiny in 2025. He emphasizes the need for businesses, particularly those in hospitality, aged care, and construction, to focus on wage compliance as wage theft criminalisation laws come into effect. He also touches on average full-time salaries across different age groups and offers benchmarking strategies for businesses looking to stay competitive and compliant in the new year.
visit the HR Cartel at www.hrcartel.com or email the podcast at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.co...
2024-10-2425 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(056) How the CFMEU’s Aggression Backfired: A Leadership BreakdownThis episode of The HR Cartel podcast dives into the ongoing saga, death threats, and situation with the CFMEU and its recent controversies, with a particular focus on leadership and behaviour within the union. Tim shares his insights on the union’s aggressive tactics, how it affects the construction industry, and discusses the broader implications of the CFMEU's conduct, including threats against public figures. The episode emphasizes the need for reasonable dialogue and better conduct within the union movement, advocating for balance and sensible practices that support workers without resorting to intimidation.
2024-10-1730 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(055) Brisbane Broncos: 5 leadership masterstrokes in exiting Kevin WaltersIn this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, host Tim Dive draws leadership insights from the Brisbane Broncos' recent leadership decisions. Using the club's journey as a case study, Tim explores the critical decisions that businesses can learn from—emphasising the importance of performance assessment, setting clear standards, removing emotional bias, and executing swift, values-based leadership decisions. Whether you're in HR, leadership, or running a small business, these lessons are universal, offering actionable strategies for sustaining performance and nurturing company culture. Tune in to see how sports and business leadership are more alike than you think.
2024-10-1030 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(054) 82% of CEOs Want Staff Back in the Office - the end of Working From HomeEPISODE CORRECTION: Tim misspeaks when stating "82% of Australian CEOs" intend a return to office within 3 years - The KPMG Report refers to 82% of Global CEOs - not Australian CEOs.
In this episode, Tim dives into the heated debate around working from home and why it’s not the workplace revolution many believe it to be. With big companies like Amazon and Tabcorp mandating a return to the office, Tim breaks down the data that shows declining productivity and engagement, despite the loud voices pushing for remote work. He challenges the common narratives, highlighting the disconnect between employee per...
2024-09-2423 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(053) The REAL top 3 issues Aussie Employers must focus on right nowIn this episode of the HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive goes deep into the urgent issues small and medium-sized employers face as we approach the end of the year. Tim challenges the usual HR advice on employee engagement and shifts the focus to more pressing concerns: wage compliance, payroll audits, and contract reviews. He breaks down why understanding complex award rates, performing regular payroll audits, and updating employment contracts are crucial steps to protect your business from new wage theft laws coming into effect in 2025. Tim also touches on the shift in big business attitudes toward work-from-home policies and...
2024-09-1824 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(052) The Right to Disconnect and other updatesTim dives into the complexities surrounding Australia's new "right to disconnect" law, which grants employees the right to refuse work-related contact outside of regular hours. Tim highlights the issues regarding the interplay between this law and existing offsetting clauses in employment contracts and explores the broader implications of recent industrial relations changes, the challenges of navigating these laws, and the importance of clear, updated workplace policies. He underscores the need for businesses to stay proactive, ensuring they’re not caught off guard by employee refusals that could disrupt operations.
2024-09-0623 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(051) SMEs in Trouble; Save Our Middle-Class!In this episode, Tim Dive explores the ongoing challenges faced by Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) amidst rising government intervention and industrial relations complexities. He discusses the critical role of the middle-class business sector in sustaining the economy and the growing pressures threatening its survival. Tim also critiques the current state of HR practices, emphasising the need for leadership development that includes the entire workforce. Join Tim as he dives deep into the real issues impacting Australia's workplaces and offers insights on how to navigate these turbulent times.
Show notes link: https://www.coffeecommune.c...
2024-08-1627 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(050) More Exposed! Fake Jobs, Cash Demands, and Secret Recordings.What are we hearing? Unions using members' fees to interfere with other union elections, multi-million dollar fake printing invoices paid for fake jobs, union delegates walking onto sites demanding cash from their members, suspected secret recordings on the streets of Brisbane, and the ACCC taking a Tier 1 construction contractor to task over their agreement with the CFMEU to block a sub-contractor from their site.
Tim will be speaking on a panel in Brisbane on 29 August 2024 - discussing IR, HR and Recruitment - tickets available here: https://www.coffeecommune.com.au/event/is-your-hiring-strategy-ready-for-the-future/
2024-08-0920 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(049) Recession looming? How to plan for redundancies now.The RBA has left interest rates high, and indicated we may be waiting until 2026 to see any reprieve. To quote the Great Mark Bouris - I fear this can push us into a recession. What does that mean for businesses?
Time to look ahead and assess you market and organisation - one major mitigating action is to cut costs when you feel you're looking at a dire short to medium term future. Headcount is usually the biggest expense, so it's important to get redundancy decisions right. We share a process to get your redundancy planning underway, and s...
2024-08-0719 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(048) More changes are on the way; and my challenge to you!In this episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive discusses the pressing issues within Australia's industrial relations landscape, focusing on recent changes and conflicts in employment laws. He highlights the persistent challenges posed by the CFMEU's toxic culture and the government's inadequate responses. Tim calls for courage and integrity from HR professionals and leaders to stand against corruption and advocate for fair, transparent workplaces. Join us as we delve into these critical topics and explore practical solutions for small and medium-sized employers.
2024-07-3124 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(047) Bikies didn't 'turn' the CFMEU into a criminal organisationAs we watch the government and the CFMEU scramble to defend themselves in the wake of corruption allegations, I fear the scope of the argument is far too narrow to make any outcome meaningful. We cannot let any political party manipulate the system so far that Australian's lives, even those distant from any construction union's reach, are negatively impacted, unaffordable, and left with nowhere to go, while our political class line their pockets and do nothing about real criminals hiding in broad daylight. Lets talk about it.
2024-07-2322 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(046) The CFMEU & Labor aren't the only ones to blame. Let's talk about the rest of them.In the fall out of the crime and corruption committed by one of the biggest unions in Australia, we need to ask - who's really at fault here? Who is to blame when an industry gets so toxic, that for decades, it can't be stopped? It can't be turned around, and so people exit the industry. They write to politicians for help. No one listens and finally, it is left up to journalists to expose the truth.
How does it get there? I'll tell you how it gets there. It gets there because everybody agrees to play t...
2024-07-1728 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(045) CFMEU and Union Conduct Exposed!Finally, thank goodness some Australian journalists have the freedom and courage to report the truth when they learn about it. After 9 months of investigating, journalists have produced a set of recordings and statements that demonstrate what many of us have been saying all along. The corruption in Australia's building and construction industry, funded by the government, and controlled by CFMEU thugs, can no longer be ignored. I've been asked my thoughts by many over the last few days - well, I'm not surprised, but will we see this Union deregistered? This is a shocking demonstration of how life can...
2024-07-1522 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(044) Leaders have lost their way! Time to get back on track.After a brief hiatus due to injury and illness - I'm back! Let's talk about the poor leadership decisions and lack of leadership courage combining to hold back employers and businesses in Australia. It's not their fault (leaders) - this has been a 10-15 year dip into the abyss of businesses/workplaces trying to appease people, make everyone happy, and be accepted by everybody. Its a trap - and now businesses are suffering the affects.
As noted in the podcast, Martin Moore's Quote:
2024-07-1128 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(043) How much you'll pay if you breach the Fair Work Act.We review a list of breaches and penalties (totalling $1.7M) from a recent case where 45 breaches were identified, including document and payslip errors, as well as underpayments. Excellent example of how much Employers will be liable to pay for simple errors of record keeping and payslip details. We also look ahead to picture what this case may have looked like next year, with wage theft laws introducing imprisonment and multi-million dollar fines.
Want to stay connected to expertise and advice on call, whenever you need a tricky question answered, guidance or advice? Consider joining The HR...
2024-06-2420 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(042) Employers stripped of rights with Casuals and ContractorsNew Industrial Relations laws coming into effect on 26 August 2024 will significantly impact on employers who engage or intend to engage casual employees and contractors. These updates bring vast changes to how casual employment is defined and managed, and the risks of engaging contractors. Ultimately, employers have lost control caused by union wish lists being granted and brought into law.
Contact the HR Cartel Podcast at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
2024-06-1728 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(041) IR Update: the unions tell us what to expect nextCall me crazy, but I feel like we're headed for a Howard Government style attack against a particular Union - it doesn't feel like we're on a good path, the Union movement is desperate to run a wrecking ball through Australian workplace relations, and our Prime Minister has just publicly declared his undying devotion to advancing the union movement every day he is in power. All employers must take notice and look ahead.
Contact the podcast at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
www.hrcartel.com
2024-06-1331 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(040) Kelli McDougall; The critical Aussie sector with 200,000 vacant jobs.Want to hear an alarming truth? We have more than 200,000 vacant positions in our agriculture sector. We need those jobs performed if we have any chance of feeding and clothing ourselves with Australian produce. In Episode 40, we talk with Kelli McDougall, Managing Director or Agri Talent about the reality of Australia's Ag sector, the opportunities, the careers, and why Australian's have the wrong idea about a career in Ag.
While politicians and unions haggle and fight over control of our workplaces, we're unwittingly ignoring the needs of Australia's most important industry, and we'll all pay the price...
2024-06-021h 07The HR Cartel Podcast(039) How to drive R.O.I from your wage bill in FY24/25This time, we're discussing how to leverage remuneration, incentives and training to drive a return on investment in your wage bill, each year. Hear how to set up the tools needed that guarantee healthy remuneration modelling, hiring decisions, reward and recognition, to push your business along a strategic plan, to execute short and long term goals.
Reach The HR Cartel Podcast at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com and visit www.hrcartel.com to stay connected or hear more.
2024-05-2723 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(038) Tanya Abbey; Recruit Corp CEO discusses recruiting and candidates in 2024The "candidate market" and recruitment generally changes with market influences, and we've got plenty happening right now, to make recruitment difficult. Many employers are recruiting without success, and retaining people is just as challenging in the shadow of the Covid era.
We get candid, as always, with Tanya and open the discussion up.
Check out Recruit Corp here https://recruitcorp.com.au/
Get in touch with the Podcast at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
2024-05-131h 06The HR Cartel Podcast(037) Phil Di Bella, delivers hard truths for people, employers and governments.This week, we talk with Phil Di Bella, AKA The Coffee King. When someone can take $5,000 and change the game forever, you bet they have many tales to tell and relevant lessons for all of us. Phil is a renowned entrepreneur who changed the hospitality industry with his customer-centric approach in the coffee/café market.
These days, Phil is changing the game again with his world-first concept "The Coffee Commune" and graciously gives back to Australian small and medium sized employers, while also influencing large organisations to do better, strategically aligned business.
Visit the Coffee Com...
2024-05-061h 27The HR Cartel Podcast(036) Raw thoughts of a real Entrepreneur - Josh Hill, Co Founder & Director of McLellan Hill.Josh Hill gets real on some workplace subjects that aren't for the faint-hearted (trigger warning) and we explore the trials and tribulations of starting businesses, the journey from conceptualising a business to creating an operating company, and hear Josh's thoughts on the difficulties of employing in Australia, complying with laws, and all while competing in competitive markets.
Are you launching or growing a business? Check out McLellan Hill and their associated companies at https://www.mclellanhill.com/our-companies
Video Note: We apologise for the few moments where the quality of the video drops. Technical issues an...
2024-05-011h 16
The HR Cartel Podcast(036) Raw thoughts of a real Entrepreneur - Josh Hill, Co Founder & Director of McLellan Hill.Josh Hill gets real on some workplace subjects that aren't for the faint-hearted (trigger warning) and we explore the trials and tribulations of starting businesses, the journey from conceptualising a business to creating an operating company, and hear Josh's thoughts on the difficulties of employing in Australia, complying with laws, and all while competing in competitive markets.
Are you launching or growing a business? Check out McLellan Hill and their associated companies at https://www.mclellanhill.com/our-companies
Video Note: We apologise for the few moments where the quality of the video drops. Technical issues an...
2024-05-011h 16The HR Cartel Podcast(035) How to get simple, systemised capability improvementA wonderful James Clear quote set me on fire this week: "You don't rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems". And how correct he is - so, we explore the HR Cartel concept of "platforms" and explain how you can simply and systematically capture knowledge, develop your organisation, and get improvements compounding to operate better than ever. Of course, the result is great culture, and great performance.
Contact the podcast at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com to share your thoughts.
2024-04-2615 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(034) The perfect storm approaching employers, and what to expect.Smaller Employers: there is a perfect storm approaching so we're looking ahead for the next five to ten years and considering what's in store for you. We talk about the risks that are manifesting, over-regulation and the information you need to protect yourself into the future.
Listen in to hear about small business and smaller employer capability needs you needs, not just to comply and avoid employee-challenges, but to keep yourself out of jail under the regulator's new Wage Theft laws.
Reach out to us at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
2024-04-1738 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(033) Employers; Labor's IR moves are about to bite us hard.We're talking to Employers; Labor's IR moves are about to bite us hard. Let's talk about the demands of the Union, now infiltrating the Fair Work Commission who is currently drafting wording for Modern Awards, that will impose the Union onto Employers, harder than ever before. How do you feel about paying the Union's operating costs? That may very-well be in our immediate future. We also discuss the Workplace Gender Equality Agency's misleading previous claims, and how they're now weaponising their data against employers in Australia, potentially impacting negatively on employment for women in larger businesses.
Contact t...
2024-04-0429 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(032) Employer Education Series: Unfair Dismissal ClaimsIn this Education Series episode, we explain the general process of Unfair Dismissal Claims and how employers may wish to see things as they progress through the claim defence process. Hear about responding to a claim, jurisdictional objections, the small business fair dismissal code, preparations for an Unfair Dismissal hearing, what to expect on the day of of your Unfair Dismissal hearing, and the ramifications of winning and losing the claim defence.
Reach us on thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
Brought to you by Workplace Advisory Specialists www.workplaceas.com
Links: Small Business Fair Dismissal...
2024-03-2540 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(031) What's killing workplaces & the "culture" fallacyWe talk about the destruction of the Aussie workplace, the intentional actions by employees and the regulators to continue the impact of bad industrial relations rules, and we bring culture into the conversation. As promised for the show notes: Here's the link to give your thoughts to the Commission on the "Right to Disconnect" Variation of modern awards to include a right to disconnect | Fair Work Commission (fwc.gov.au)
Reach out us at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
2024-03-1233 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(030) Employees to get 10 paid weeks off per year? Lets talk about it.Are employees getting too much time off, paid, each year? Annual leave, sick leave, public holidays, compassionate leave, FDV leave, and now the Queensland Council of Unions wants an additional 10 days of paid leave for reproductive health. How far is too far? Employees are facing non-productive workforces with increased rights to request even more disconnection from their jobs without any reduction in pay, all coming with a much higher price tag and no ability to tie cost increases to productivity or performance. Join us for this talk - share your views at thehrcartelpodccast@gmail.com
Th...
2024-03-0724 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(029) Only 'common sense' can save us nowThe Gender Pay Equity report is out, and the agency responsible for workplace equality has (again) produced nothing more than an attack on businesses, no solutions, yet demonstrates no 'real' problem actually exists in workplace pay equality. We talk about the lunacy currently plaguing Australian workplaces and how small and medium sized employers will have to tread carefully in the coming months/years.
Contact us at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com
2024-02-2932 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(028) Tony ”Shania Twain” Burke; he don’t impress me much.We dub Minister Tony Burke, "Shania". He don't impress me much... The ridiculous rules this Minister is now making Australian employers deal with, is simply "not impressive". His policies have sent the volume of permanent Australian jobs down, down, down... What's new? Right to disconnect, new Contractor rules, and Unions getting unfettered access to any workplaces' payroll records. What a guy! Email us at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com - share your thoughts, questions, suggestions, or whatever else you want us to know.
2024-02-2331 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(027) Restructure, redundancy, outsource, and people performanceWe discuss the 4 ways employers can most effectively get more out of their people, the total workforce, and where drastic measures are needed, restructure and outsource key functions. Sharing knowledge from real-world experience - listen in and share your thoughts on any other ideas that work. Contact us at thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com and visit www.workplaceas.com for tools and tips.
2024-02-0736 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(026) The debate on ”Working From Home”Where do you sit on Working From Home and Return To Office mandates? We explore the statements and arguments people are pushing, and the rebuttals we feel every Employer has the right to make. Share your thoughts with us, join the debate. thehrcartelpodcast@gmail.com or www.workplaceas.com
2024-01-3043 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(025) Research says wellbeing is a waste of money; here’s what to do instead.Research from the Oxford University has proven what real-world HR practitioners have known all along. Wellbeing programs and incentives haven't achieved a thing! The solution is and always has been right under our noses. If you want your people to be happier, more productive, healthier, and more engaged, the answer is far simpler than you may think. Check out www.workplaceas.com for more resources, advice and support.
2024-01-2627 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(024) 7 limitations to identify & remove from your business this year.Happy New Year - let's focus on business improvements as we name 7 different limitations you must identify and remove from your workplace/business this year. These limitations cause bottlenecks, confusion, frustration, and turnover, and all of these things occurring will cost you money, time, clients, and may result in losing your best people. Check out www.workplaceas.com for more info.
2024-01-1729 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(023) Three major factors you must be ready for, in 2024.Change is afoot, it's relentless and more is coming. This is going to make employment relations and workplaces very high-risk for 2024 and the years ahead. We break through all off the noise, and bring Employers the top 3 HR/IR factors you must be ready for, before 2024 takes hold. We make the number 1 recommendation, we explain the number 1 opportunity, and we provide the number 1 risk for Senior Managers, Directors and business owners.
As always, reach out to us via www.workplaceas.com for more information, advice, comments and more.
2023-12-1938 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(022) Working from home, public holidays, leave in advance, and employee debts.Tim gives you all the reminders you need right now - working from home, public holidays, leave in advance, and employee debts. As promised in the episode, follow the link below where we detail the 78 Modern Awards that were amended, allowing your employees to go into debt with you for annal leave in advance. Go to www.workplaceas.com to submit queries or suggestions.
For Annual Leave in Advance Rules: https://www.workplaceas.com/blog/78-modern-awards-varied-impacting-paid-leave-during-shutdowns
2023-12-0532 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(021) Are your leaders acting like this? Time to act!We talk about the tell-tale signs that leaders are lacking the capability to drive a business, create standards and maintain good performance. Listen in, and if anything sounds familiar, it might be time to step into the leadership team and set things back on the right path.
Go to www.workplaceas.com to reach out or download some performance management tools.
2023-11-1432 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(020) REPORT: Industrial State of Play 2023/2024After the Australian Labour and Employment Relations Association (ALERA) National Conference, Tim shares the "Industrial State of Play" for Aussie businesses, for the foreseeable future. We discuss the volume of claims lodged against employers, sexual harassment and discrimination in Australia and the success rates of claims and damages. We disclose what the Government, the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Fair Work Commission, Unions and Employers are seeking, and what this all means for Employers trying to run a business in Australia today. Go to www.workplaceas.com for tools and updates.
2023-10-3144 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(019) Dealing with disputes ”off the record”Disputes are a necessary part of humanity, but from an HR sense, employers are often focused on following procedures they can rely upon, should a dispute become a legal claim. Many disputes have to follow that formal path, but a lot can be handled in a different way, getting a faster result, in a far less painful manner. Go to www.workplaceas.com for downloadable tools you can start using right away!
2023-10-1126 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(018) Working from home & productivity problems that SMEs can solveOur government, the Union movement, Bankers and Billionaires are not going to provide the answers to end Australia's productivity woes. SMEs, the backbone of Australia are the ones who can lift productivity higher, and frankly, are probably the only ones with the resourcefulness and courage to do it. Go to www.workplaceas.com to get our complimentary employee performance tools, start using them today.
2023-09-2627 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(017) The easier Fair Work claims to defend (jurisdictional objections)Not all Fair Work Commission claims deserve the same level of fear employers automatically experience, when they receive that dreaded notification. Jurisdictional objections exist, where the employer's response can tell the Commission the claim simply cannot proceed. So, what are jurisdictional objections, and how do you know if you can declare one exists? Listen in...
Go to www.workplaceas.com for downloadable resources and more advice.
2023-09-1532 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(016) Labor’s blatant attempt to unionise the nationWe look between the lines of the Labor Government's 'closing the loopholes' bill, and see the real agenda influenced by the ACTU. We touch on the QANTAS issues, and how their troubles present a significant HR problem. Go to www.workplaceas.com to download free HR tools, and more.
2023-09-0827 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(015) The single most frightening clause in the Fair Work Act.This section of the Fair Work Act is only 6 short lines long, but it's the single most frightening clause for all employers. This clause is why the Fair Work Act seems unfair to employers and stacked in the favour of employees. Find out why employers feel this way, and what employers must know if they're to stand any chance against all allegations that may be raised against them. Give this podcast a like, share, a follow or subscribe - reach out and join the conversation, and visit www.workplaceas.com for more information and support.
2023-08-3029 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(014) Jason Sessarago, CEO; Using Values & Leadership to Create Social ImpactJason Sessarago is the CEO of MOB (the Men Of Business Academy). MOB is a Not For Profit organisation, a school for disengaged boys, and a Gold Coast based movement changing education for young men that would otherwise be left behind. Jason is a Board Director of multiple organisations, and has held a CEO seat for 8 years. Jason shares the story behind the scenes, and we discover that values and beliefs have assisted this organisation to garner so much political, social, community, and education sector interest. Listen in, there's much to be learned for all businesses, all leaders, in...
2023-08-231h 02The HR Cartel Podcast(013) Bonus structures that create high-performance and retentionThis episode discusses a simpler way to set up and utilise incentives and bonus payments to bring about high-performance and retention, in a modern workplace where employees want and expect increased earnings.
Go to www.workplaceas.com to hear more, download free performance tools, or get in touch.
2023-08-1029 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(012) Michelle Cirson - Construction Adjudicator, Director and LawyerMichelle Cirson - Director of "Tricks of Your Trade", Construction Adjudicator, and Qualified Lawyer. We share information about the construction industry, contractual and payment disputes, and we also get personal on stories from our past about Union conduct, and how today's Industrial Relations changes are impacting the construction industry and wider sectors.
Michelle Cirson on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/
Tricks of Your Trade - https://www.tricksofyourtrade.com.au/
2023-07-291h 02The HR Cartel Podcast(011) Tanya Abbey - Conversation with a CEO, Mentor and Head HunterOur guest, Tanya Abbey, is a CEO, Mentor, Head Hunter and all round great human. CEO of Recruitcorp (www.recruitcorp.com.au), CEO/Founder of Placeme.com.au , Board Member of ALTRU, and volunteer for Headspace and the Qld Government's "Mentoring for Growth" initiative, Tanya shares insights across today's workplaces.
As always, check out www.workplaceas.com for more episodes, advice, and tools.
2023-07-211h 06The HR Cartel Podcast(010) A reality check for leaders & the latest Union tricksIn this episode, we give a reality check to leaders who are willy-nilly throwing around pay increases, another Fair Work Act amendment, and we discuss some new tricks the Unions are using in their Agreements to favour Union members and delegates. See more at www.workplaceas.com
2023-07-1329 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(009) Is your leadership the problem? Let’s find outCan you truly lead? Is your workplace leadership style serving your business, or doing harm? Leaders that know all about this particular detail are able to organise and design teams exceptionally well, and lead them all to success. Don't complicate leadership with bullsh*t theories.
2023-07-0434 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(008) How you can get more out of your people, right nowHow to find your bottom 10% of staff, move them up, or get them out of the business. Learn some ideas about getting performance back into your workplace as a key focus, and get more out of your workforce.
2023-06-3042 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(007) How company structures were used to combat IR laws & Unions.Hear about my huge (and hilarious) error in judgment, plus how and why employers are using company structures to get around Industrial Relations laws, Unions, and productivity restraints.
2023-06-2329 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(006) Same Job Same Pay, and why workplace productivity is long goneThe business community, ACTU and the Labor Government have entered talks to refine Same-Job-Same-Pay, Master Builders calls it a "sham consultation", and why productivity in workplaces isn't going to be any better for some time.
2023-06-1931 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(005) Employers are now at war with Labor and the ACTUEmployer Groups commence their fight against Labor and the ACTU, we review some IR updates, and David Koch's company executives get told to 'eat a !'
2023-06-0629 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(004) This Financial Controller stole money, I fought her in the Commission.When this financial controller paid herself money, she had no entitlement to, the fight landed in the Fair Work Commission. Hear the factors that are worth knowing so you can see the signs in your own business, and deal with treacherous conduct as soon as it happens, before it costs you thousands.
2023-06-0326 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(003): The Unlucky Cucumber - Tales from HR ArchivesTwo True Stories! The Unlucky Cucumber and the Secretive CEO. Dive into the archives of the HR office, listen to these two weird stories and take away lessons of how to handle the outrageous workplace issues you may find yourself faced with, some day soon. Go to www.workplaceas.com to find free downloadable employee performance tools and book a consultation to get HR and IR advice today.
2023-05-2320 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(002) Who’s worse? The Union or the Fair Work Ombudsman?Guess how much just one single Union was fined for breaking workplace laws in the last 5 or so years... I'll wait... Will the Labor government bow down to this Union and scrap the Fair Work Ombudsman? Is the Ombudsman even worth the millions it costs the tax payer? Head over to www.workplaceas.com for free employee performance management tools, consultation bookings and all HR/IR support.
2023-05-1617 minThe HR Cartel Podcast(001) The Triple Threat: 3 Factors Driving Up Costs for Aussie EmployersIn this episode, we discuss the 3 major changes to workplace law that will drive up the cost of running a business in Australia. We'll talk about the real impact the Government's changes to legislation will have on millions of businesses, the Unions' motivations, and what to prepare for in 2023.
Go to www.workplaceas.com to book a consultation with the host, raise questions, or download free tools and templates to help you manage your workplace.
2023-05-0924 min