Can you share with us the story of how you initially became involved in the field of Industrial Relations? What experiences or events led you to pursue a career in this area?

My journey into Industrial Relations began with a moment of quiet conviction. As a junior manager in one of my early roles, I witnessed a situation where an employee wasn’t being given a fair go. Rather than staying silent, I chose to speak up advocating for a balanced resolution. The matter was resolved amicably, and both the employee and manager expressed their gratitude for my intervention. That experience lit a spark. The CEO, recognising my instinct for fairness and diplomacy, encouraged me to explore formal training and immerse myself in the ER/IR community. That pivotal moment transformed a sense of justice into a purposeful career path.

Reflecting on your career journey thus far, could you highlight what you consider to be your most significant achievement within the realm of Industrial Relations? How did this accomplishment impact your professional trajectory or contribute to your personal growth?

Being elected President of the Industrial Relations Society of Queensland (IRSQ) stands out as the most significant milestone in my industrial relations journey. This role has not only allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the profession but also deepened my understanding of the evolving IR landscape through collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Leading a committee of highly skilled and passionate professionals has been both a privilege and a learning curve. It has challenged me to grow as a leader balancing diverse perspectives, fostering inclusive dialogue, and guiding strategic initiatives. Personally, it continues to shape my leadership style, resilience, and commitment to advancing fair and balanced industrial relations in Queensland and beyond.

In your opinion, what do you perceive as the most prominent emerging issue within the field of Industrial Relations today? How do you foresee this issue shaping the landscape of IR in the future, and what steps do you believe are necessary to address it effectively?

One of the most prominent emerging issues in Australian industrial relations is the rise of insecure and gig economy work. With platforms like Uber and Doordash reshaping employment norms, many workers face limited rights, low job security, and lack of access to traditional benefits. This shift challenges the foundations of Australia’s IR system, which was built around stable, long-term employment. In the future, this trend could widen inequality and strain social safety nets. To address it, Australia must modernise its industrial laws ensuring gig workers receive fair pay, protections, and representation while balancing innovation and flexibility in the evolving labour market. The second challenge is the lack graduates entering the field of IR and the diminishing learning opportunities being offered by educational institutions.

If you could offer a piece of advice to your younger self when embarking on your first job in Industrial Relations, what would it be? Based on your experiences and insights gained over the years, what guidance would you provide to someone just starting out in this field?

If I could offer one piece of advice to my younger self stepping into the world of Industrial Relations, it would be this: pause, reflect, and then act. Don’t rush to respond listen deeply, with the intent to understand, not just to reply. True wisdom in this field comes not from textbooks alone, but from lived experience through trial, error, and the humility to learn from both. As my mother wisely says, “You can only clap with two hands.” Collaboration, empathy, and balance are the heartbeat of effective IR. I would also remind myself that patience is a strength, not a weakness, and that every voice at the table no matter how quiet deserves to be heard. For those just beginning, embrace curiosity, seek mentorship, and never underestimate the power of respectful dialogue. This field is as much about people as it is about policy.

Is there a particular individual within the realm of Industrial Relations or a related field whom you admire most? What qualities or accomplishments of this person inspire you, and in what ways have they influenced your approach to your own professional endeavors?

There are several individuals who have profoundly influenced my perspective on Industrial Relations, but three stand out for their enduring impact. First, Errol Hodder, former General Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union and Commissioner of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, is a figure I deeply admire. His journey from shearer to union leader and commissioner reflects a life dedicated to fairness, advocacy, and reform. Hodder’s role in revitalising the AWU’s influence and his principled leadership during pivotal moments in Queensland’s labour history continue to inspire my commitment to integrity and balance in IR.

From the political sphere, Paul Keating stands out not only for his economic reforms but for his nuanced understanding of the social contract between labour and capital. His ability to articulate complex industrial and economic issues with clarity and conviction has shaped how I approach policy and negotiation with both pragmatism and vision.

Finally, Chief Justice Susan Kiefel, the first female Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, exemplifies intellectual rigour and quiet strength. Her legal reasoning and commitment to justice remind me of the importance of impartiality, deep analysis, and respect for the rule of law principles that are foundational in IR practice. Together, these individuals have shaped my approach to leadership, advocacy, and decision-making grounding it in fairness, courage, and thoughtful deliberation.

As we aim to get to know you better beyond your professional achievements, could you share a random fun fact about yourself? Whether it's a unique hobby, an interesting travel experience, or an unexpected talent, we'd love to hear something that offers insight into the person behind the professional persona.

Random fun fact? I got lost on a safari in Kenya; yes, properly lost. One moment I was admiring a herd of elephants, the next I was wondering if I had accidentally become part of the wildlife. Thankfully, I was found sunburnt, slightly embarrassed. And if that wasn’t enough, I also once fell off a ridge while bushwalking in the Queensland hinterland (don’t worry, just a bruised ego and a few scratches). Let’s just say my sense of direction is more philosophical than practical. But whether in the wild or the workplace, I have learned that resilience, humour, and a good story go a long way.

Can you share with us the story of how you initially became involved in the field of industrial relations? What experiences or events led you to pursue a career in this area?

I’ve always felt strongly about fairness, which led to some epic tantrums as a child as well as my dream to become the first female prime minister of Australia. I was told by my primary school deputy principal that most politicians are lawyers and so began my secondary dream to be a lawyer. I have since abandoned my dream of being the first female prime minister of Australia for obvious reasons but I did become a lawyer!

While studying at university, I worked part time at a supermarket doing payroll and administration, and it was there that I first discovered a love of helping other workers to learn more about their rights and entitlements. I was then naturally drawn to employment law and industrial relations late in my studies. After graduating, I started in a casual call centre role assisting union members with their employment issues. I adored it and quickly moved into an Industrial Officer role where I stayed for many years because industrial relations is very fulfilling, despite its challenges.

Reflecting on your career journey thus far, could you highlight what you consider to be your most significant achievement within the realm of industrial relations? How did this accomplishment impact your professional trajectory or contribute to your personal growth?

There isn’t one achievement that stands out to me as the most significant. Each step in my career has played a key part in my professional and personal growth, but a couple of highlights include becoming admitted as a lawyer and working with a great team to do good things for the IR community in WA as President of IRSWA.

The most satisfying career moments have come from helping others. When I’ve been able to help someone resolve their matter, it has solidified my passion for industrial relations and reminded me that the difficult times are worth it.

In your opinion, what do you perceive as the most prominent emerging issue within the field of industrial relations today? How do you foresee this issue shaping the landscape of IR in the future, and what steps do you believe are necessary to address it effectively?

I think there is a risk that people can become too entrenched in a position or divided along ideological lines that they may lose the ability to discuss matters with people they disagree with (an issue that is impacting society more broadly). If this continues, then we will see more protracted disputes, litigation, and less goodwill from all parties. A way to address it effectively is to continue encouraging people working in industrial relations to build connections with others across the full spectrum of industrial relations and to engage in balanced discussions. The work of industrial relations societies is so important for this reason. You can meet an adversary in an informal environment and get to know more about them as a human being. I believe this leads to more respectful interactions and better advocacy.

If you could offer a piece of advice to your younger self when embarking on your first job in industrial relations, what would it be? Based on your experiences and insights gained over the years, what guidance would you provide to someone just starting out in this field?

Keep going, you’re on the right path! Self-doubt is ok in small doses and can help you be a better practitioner but believe in yourself more - you have valuable skills to offer the world.

I would provide similar guidance to someone just starting out in the field and would also emphasise the importance of relationships. The field of industrial relations is relatively small and your reputation matters. Prioritise your professional integrity and keep the bigger picture in mind.

Is there a particular individual within the realm of industrial relations or a related field whom you admire most? What qualities or accomplishments of this person inspire you, and in what ways have they influenced your approach to your own professional endeavours?

I am lucky enough to have several people that I admire and look up to. When I started as an Industrial Officer, I was surrounded by smart and strategic women. They each approached matters in different ways, but shared common values of hard work, respect and professionalism. This, along with strong collegiality, are values I continue to be guided by today.

As we aim to get to know you better beyond your professional achievements, could you share a random fun fact about yourself? Whether it is a unique hobby, an interesting travel experience, or an unexpected talent, we would love to hear something that offers insight into the person behind the professional persona.

When I was around 17 years old, I visited my dad in Seattle, Washington for 3 months (my dad had moved there permanently). I begged him to teach me how to drive while I was there. My dad didn’t want the right hand side of the road to become my default for driving and he instead bought me some flying lessons. So, I learnt to fly a plane before I could drive a car!

Commissioner Leigh Johns

has been  appointed as a 

Judge of the Federal Circuit and

Family Court of Australia

Congratulations to Leigh Johns OAM on his appointment as a Judge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia!

Leigh is an invaluable member of ALERA’s Executive Committee, currently serving as Treasurer and has played a pivotal role in shaping our strategy and driving key initiatives. His dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact, and we are truly grateful for his contributions.

On behalf of ALERA, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Leigh on this well-deserved recognition.

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With a robust strategy now in place, Nate Burke—immediate past president of IRSQ and current ALERA Executive member—steps into the role of ALERA President, eager to advance several exciting initiatives for ALERA’s members.

We caught up with Nate to hear his thoughts on industrial relations and gain some insights into his vision for ALERA into the future.

What attracts you to the ALERA Presidency and what do you hope to achieve?

I am intimidated beyond belief to be following Neroli Ellis as ALERA President. However, I strongly believe in the direction that Neroli and the whole ALERA management committee have put ALERA in over recent years. As President, I want to see ALERA deliver strong support at the national level to industrial relations societies in every State and Territory and to highlight and develop the workplace relations profession.

Can you share with us the story of how you initially became involved in the field of industrial relations? What experiences or events led you to pursue a career in this area?

I was initially studying to be a doctor. Unfortunately, I got very sick in my second year and the ongoing effects of that illness meant I needed to reassess my options. I swapped into law, then added business, hated both so I chose (read: fell into) something in the middle - industrial relations.

Reflecting on your career journey thus far, could you highlight what you consider to be your most significant achievement within the realm of industrial relations? How did this accomplishment impact your professional trajectory or contribute to your personal growth?

It's probably a number of achievements. Being the President of the IRSQ and now ALERA is something I would never have predicted happening but I'm immensely happy and proud that it did. Similarly, working at the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and working on the legislation for Secure Jobs, Better Pay, Protecting Worker Entitlements, Closing Loopholes 1 and 2 was something I wouldn't have thought was on the cards but has given me a real sense of achievement and I'm proud to be able to say that I directly contributed to changing the law. Regardless of your views on the substance of that work, it represents a HUGE amount of work on the part of the many public servants involved. Just as some lawyers would say litigation is something all lawyers should do at least once; I would say playing a part in the legislative process is something all lawyers should do once.

In your opinion, what do you perceive as the most prominent emerging issue within the field of industrial relations today? How do you foresee this issue shaping the landscape of IR in the future, and what steps do you believe are necessary to address it effectively?

I think in recent years there have been significant changes to what 'work' workplace relations regulates, and it will be interesting to see where this goes. As with most things, I suspect it will continue to expand and contract as we go through the cycle.

If you could offer a piece of advice to your younger self when embarking on your first job in industrial relations, what would it be? based on your experiences and insights gained over the years, what guidance would you provide to someone just starting out in this field?

I am affected by imposter syndrome. I would say to younger me: you can do it. Don't take a backseat, if you have an opinion, express it, if you have a question, ask it, if you think something is wrong, raise it. I have been very fortunate that I have been noticed by people with the ability to help me advance in my career, but it would have been better if I'd understood earlier (and even now) that I can do it.

Is there a particular individual within the realm of industrial relations or a related field whom you admire most? What qualities or accomplishments of this person inspire you, and in what ways have they influenced your approach to your own professional endeavours?

I am lucky that I got to work at the Fair Work Commission and the Fair Work Ombudsman and be a part of the IRSQ and ALERA. This experience has meant I've met and worked with some real heavy hitters in the field. For a number of years, I worked for Commissioner Paula Spencer and Vice President Ingrid Asbury and despite thinking I knew everything about workplace relations, I learnt almost everything I know from them. I'll forever be grateful that they allowed me to work in their Chambers (and to the Associates that followed me, I had many, many arguments with them about throwing out the hardcopy diaries - of which there were two. You're welcome). There are many others that I cannot list for fear I'd miss someone important, and I can't handle the flood of abusive text messages I'd receive.

As we aim to get to know you better beyond your professional achievements, could you share a random fun fact about yourself? Whether it is a unique hobby, an interesting travel experience, or an unexpected talent, we would love to hear something that offers insight into the person behind the professional persona.

I'm just going to list a bunch of things: I grew up in the (true) beef capital of Australia, I won the religion award at school but haven't been to church since school, I love to cook, I have 2 cats and if you're ever in a teams meeting with me you'll meet them, I come from an extremely large extended family (I couldn't even tell you how many people), I don't like olives but really wish I did, I have watched Downton Abbey from start to finish more times than is acceptable to publicly admit, and I would be a terrific Duke.

New resources about pay and conditions, enterprise agreements and bargaining

Together with the Fair Work Ombudsman,  the FWC have launched new resources to help you better understand the Fair Work system.

Visit their Online Learning Portal to access new animations and supporting resources on:

Understanding employee pay and entitlements

• learn where employee pay and entitlements come from
• find out how awards, enterprise agreements and contracts interact
• know which of the two Fair Work agencies can help
• learn what an enterprise agreement is, how they are made and when they apply
• find a case study about a small business’s experience of making an enterprise agreement

Understanding enterprise agreements

• learn what an enterprise agreement is, how they are made and when they apply
• find a case study about a small business’s experience of making an enterprise agreement.

Understanding bargaining

• learn about the key steps in good bargaining processes
• understand who is involved and their roles and responsibilities.

The captions for the animations are also available in Arabic, Hindi, Simplified Chinese, Japanese and Spanish.

Read their joint media statement with the Fair Work Ombudsman

• New resources about pay and conditions, enterprise agreements and bargaining (pdf)

Can you share with us the story of how you initially became involved in the field of industrial relations? What experiences or events led you to pursue a career in this area?

My father is a lawyer who has had a significant employment law practice for as long as I can recall. I was always interested in becoming a lawyer myself and, perhaps unsurprisingly, I worked with him whilst I studied and upon my graduation, gaining valuable experience in the field. I much preferred the pace at which employment law matters proceed, especially compared to the personal injury matters which often drag on for years and years. I prefer the sometimes “rough and ready” nature of negotiations in the employment and IR field, were matters get settled quickly, enabling people to move on with their lives. Also, I worked at large fast food chain and a supermarket in my school/university days, where my experiences, and those of my co-workers, showed me the importance of workers having access to good quality advice about their rights and entitlements at work.

Reflecting on your career journey thus far, could you highlight what you consider to be your most significant achievement within the realm of industrial relations? How did this accomplishment impact your professional trajectory or contribute to your personal growth?

I cannot think of “the big one”, but hopefully I am young enough that my most significant achievements are still ahead of me. For me, it is more about the smaller achievements, like being referred the close friend of a respected colleague from the other side, or a referral from the owner of a business you acted against previously.

I am now starting to see some of the students I’ve taught in the employment and industrial relations law module of the University of Adelaide GDLP course coming into their own as young lawyers. Even though I no doubt had nothing to do with their ability, nor their decision to practice in this area of law, it has definitely provided a satisfying answer for me when I am up late marking assignments and wondering why I keep trying to squeeze teaching in on top of my own practice and family life.

In your opinion, what do you perceive as the most prominent emerging issue within the field of industrial relations today? How do you foresee this issue shaping the landscape of IR in the future, and what steps do you believe are necessary to address it effectively?

I think dwindling unionism and the effectiveness of Labor's collective bargaining reforms will become a major issue. It will be interesting to see the uptake on multi-enterprise collective agreements and whether the unions have the resources to bargain effectively across multiple enterprises in circumstances where less than 5% of workers entering the workforce will join a union and membership overall is at about 12.5%.

If lack of members means the unions do not have the resources to organise and bargain effectively on behalf of workers across these enterprises, we will lose the benefits to the workforce that the reforms hope to bring.

If you could offer a piece of advice to your younger self when embarking on your first job in industrial relations, what would it be? based on your experiences and insights gained over the years, what guidance would you provide to someone just starting out in this field?

Don’t worry about winning or losing, worry about whether you do a good a job.

Whilst a good outcome is important, clients also want to feel like they have had someone genuinely advocating on their behalf and their position has been heard and understood.

More experienced practitioners will know that there is a winner and a loser in every case. They won’t judge you on the final outcome, they will judge you on the way you conduct yourself and your client’s case all the way up to that final point.

Is there a particular individual within the realm of industrial relations or a related field whom you admire most? What qualities or accomplishments of this person inspire you, and in what ways have they influenced your approach to your own professional endeavours?

There are a few Commission members and judges who I particularly admire for the paths they followed prior to their appointments. What I admire is the fact that they never appeared to be motivated by recognition or promotion. They always appeared to stay true to themselves and their values, practiced only in areas of the law for which they had a real passion and only ever appeared concerned to act professionally and do the best possible job they could for their clients. It just shows you can go a long way by focusing on the basics.

As we aim to get to know you better beyond your professional achievements, could you share a random fun fact about yourself? Whether it is a unique hobby, an interesting travel experience, or an unexpected talent, we would love to hear something that offers insight into the person behind the professional persona.

I have a lime green 1979 Holden Gemini station wagon that I drive on the weekends. I have had it since I was a teenager and I really should be too old and sensible to be driving something so noisy and obnoxious. My wife and son refuse to get in it with me, but my daughter loves it.

I have also spent the last few months learning how to do the Rubik’s cube. I average about two and a half minutes to solve it, which is apparently not very fast.

ALERA is excited to announce the Journal of Industrial Relation Awards, generously supported by Sage Publications.

The JIR Fran Hayes Award – For a major contribution to research on equity in industrial relations.

The JIR Joe Isaac Award – For a major contribution to internationally comparative research in industrial relations.

For further information on the nomination eligibility and criteria view here or email: JIR@deakin.edu.au

Nominations close 30 September 2024.

From the 1 July 2024, the FWC have a new ground on which they can issue an exemption certificate.

An exemption certificate allows a permit holder to enter a workplace or business premises without prior notice if they are investigating a suspected contravention. The FWC can now issue an exemption certificate if:

• the suspected contravention involves the underpayment of wages to a member of the union who works on the premises, and
• they reasonably believe that advance notice of the entry would hinder an effective investigation.

Find out more

Read the Right of entry changes: Exemption certificates relating to suspected underpayments (pdf).

Visit the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website to learn more about right of entry  and the rights and responsibilities of permit holders, employers and other persons on the premises.

Visit the FWC website to learn more about powers to issue entry permits and how they can help to resolve a dispute about right of entry.

Find out about other upcoming changes on Closing Loopholes Acts – what’s changing page.

Can you share with us the story of how you initially became involved in the field of Industrial Relations? What experiences or events led you to pursue a career in this area?

I commenced an Arts/Law degree at Sydney Uni, thinking I would major in English and History. I left my first English lecture in week one knowing immediately it wasn't for me and found myself in the furthest campus building from that lecture hall. It was the Industrial Relations building. I tried to enrol and was told it was fully subscribed. I recall telling the IR admin person that I would be an asset to the department and would end up top of class, so they should let me in! They relented and that was the start of my love affair with IR. Four years later, I completed my (Arts) Honours year majoring in Industrial Relations (and was awarded the Qantas prize as top student)! I joined the Clayton Utz Employment Law team as a paralegal that year and other than one six month rotation as a grad, I have practiced industrial relations / employment law ever since. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

Reflecting on your career journey thus far, could you highlight what you consider to be your most significant achievement within the realm of Industrial Relations? How did this accomplishment impact your professional trajectory or contribute to your personal growth?

At the end of 2019, three colleagues and I founded Kingston Reid. At that time, we had a vision to be bold and think big in how we deliver legal services to clients. We had a brilliant national team and together we created a firm that focuses exclusively on employment, industrial and safety law. We set out to be the largest national specialist workplace firm and today, Kingston Reid is recognised as a Tier 1 specialist. The accomplishment is only in a very small part, mine - it is overwhelmingly the accomplishment of our dedicated and amazing team who think big, stay curious and walk in our client’s shoes - and it's something I am immensely proud of. Personally, it has led to huge growth in developing skills to run a business. It has helped me think strategically and be a better people leader.

In your opinion, what do you perceive as the most prominent emerging issue within the field of Industrial Relations today? How do you foresee this issue shaping the landscape of IR in the future, and what steps do you believe are necessary to address it effectively?

It's trite to say, but I think the impact of digital transformation and automation on the nature and quality of work is a huge issue. As technology advances and disrupts various industries and occupations, workers face the challenges of adapting to new skills requirements, coping with job insecurity and displacement, and negotiating fair wages and conditions in an increasingly competitive and flexible labour market. Employers face increased competition and have to be more agile than ever. We see this with digital platforms and gig work which is being disrupted now. This issue will definitely impact the landscape of IR in the future, as it will require innovative and collaborative solutions from all stakeholders, including those our State and Territory Society’s represent.

If you could offer a piece of advice to your younger self when embarking on your first job in Industrial Relations, what would it be? Based on your experiences and insights gained over the years, what guidance would you provide to someone just starting out in this field?

Ha! I wouldn't dare provide advice to my younger self - it wouldn't be appreciated! My insights aren't prolific (clichéd, yes!) - jump in the deep end and work hard (it's easy to stand out if you show initiative and get things done!) .

Is there a particular individual within the realm of Industrial Relations or a related field whom you admire most? What qualities or accomplishments of this person inspire you, and in what ways have they influenced your approach to your own professional endeavours?

Loads of people inspire me and I admire too many to name! Most of them are fabulous femmes who have huge drive and are passionate about what they do. Some of these women are leaders in business, others in law and a number in academia.

As we aim to get to know you better beyond your professional achievements, could you share a random fun fact about yourself? Whether it's a unique hobby, an interesting travel experience, or an unexpected talent, we'd love to hear something that offers insight into the person behind the professional persona.

I am a Group Fitness Instructor (GFI) in my spare time. I teach a number of Les Mills group fitness classes and can be found in spin rooms around the Sydney CBD on weekday mornings.

How did you get into workplace relations?

I was sick of everyone whinging in the tearoom about their workplace concerns so I became active in raising issues and importantly putting forward solutions and working with management to ensure change. For me, it has always been about the basic values and fairness and that continues to be my motivation.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Take risks and when faced with “sliding door moments”, always choose the door which is the uncomfortable way forward to open up new challenges and experiences. Always keep learning.

What do you feel has been the biggest achievement in your career to date?

Appointment to the role as Deputy President of the Tasmanian Industrial Commission and utilising my depth of experience gained through 17 years as the State Secretary of the Australian Nursing Midwifery Federation.

What is the biggest emerging issue in workplace relations?

Workplace relations is now more complex and technical and becoming out of touch for many. Despite the changing industrial frameworks, employees and managers still need to work in a shared interest-based approach in a collaborative working environment. Unfortunately, many managers who have been promoted due to their advanced skill set, may not have the important skills of industrial relations, which ultimately is about people, communication, mutual respect and the employment relationship.

Who is the person you most admire?

I’ve been lucky to have many mentors during my career and have admired them all and they have been instrumental in my work- life balance. I have sought out support when I felt I needed to be able to share ideas and strategy and have had union, management, board chairs, lawyers and academics to work with and I am always grateful for their advice.

Tell us a random fun fact about you?

I am addicted to masters rowing and have just competed at Nationals. You have to be abnormal to want to train at 6 am in the cold and dark four days a week and also turn up regularly to the gym.