The Recruitment and Consulting Services Association (RCSA) has welcomed the passage of new laws through the Senate that protect the Independent Contractors and their right to choose a flexible work arrangement.
The Independent Contractors Bill 2006 and Workplace Relations Legislation Amendment (Independent Contractors) Bill 2006, which was passed in the Senate today with several amendments, is designed to protect those who choose to work under a commercial arrangement rather than a contract of employment.
ìRCSA supports the rights of individuals to make a free choice, and to provide services in the way they choose. So long as the decision of an individual is made without coercion and with genuine understanding as to the consequences, an individual should be free to decide, and have their rights protected by appropriate lawsî, Ms Julie Mills, CEO of the RCSA said.
According the RCSA, the changes are necessary to reflect the needs of the modern, flexible workforce.
ìIndependent contracting is a work arrangement of choice that provides individuals with the opportunity to achieve business success, while balancing work and life.
ìThe needs of the Australian workforce have evolved and changed in recent years, and our laws must keep pace. The changes delivered today will provide a proper legislative framework to support those who exercise their choice,î Ms Mills said.
The RCSA believes that common law remains the most appropriate mechanism for the determination of true and free independent contracting relationships.
ìThe common law is flexible enough to take in to account the diversity of factual circumstances that surround independent contracting. Todayís decision is a welcome one for the flexible workforce,î Ms Mills said.
Independent Contractor legislation a positive step forward for flexible workforce
RCSA has welcomed the passage of new laws through the Senate that protect the Independent Contractors and their right to choose a flexible work arrangement
