Earlier this month, the OECD released its report on labour market policy in Australia, focusing on the necessity of reintegrating disadvantaged laid-off workers into the labour market through ‘intensive employment services.’ In light of the recent closures of a number of major Australian employers, including Queensland Nickel, the report brings to light the lack of reemployment support offered to many recently laid-off employees. The report recommended a number of changes to Australian labour law, including strengthening ‘employers’ responsibilities for workers they are laying off by instituting a longer notice period in case of mass layoff.’
The report, whilst recognising the risks that older and causal workers often face, generally praised Australia’s ‘flexible labour market where employers can easily hire and fire workers, which underpins a high level of economic dynamism but also makes it possible for most Australian workers who are dismissed due to changing economic conditions to find a new job quickly.’
The complete list of recommendations can be found at here, and the complete report and its key findings can be found here.