The inaugural Fair Work Assembly welcomes over 100 delegates
Earlier this week delegates gathered in Birmingham for the first Fair Work Assembly for a day of discussion and collaboration.
Over 100 delegates gathered in Birmingham for the first-ever Fair Work Assembly to discuss employment rights enforcement, emerging labour market risks, and provide input into the priorities of the Fair Work Agency (FWA) going forward.
The event brought together representatives from trade unions, employers, civil society organisations and academia for a day of discussion and collaboration with FWA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Pinney OBE, Chair of the Advisory Board Matthew Taylor CBE, and members of the Advisory Board.
The Assembly provided an opportunity for delegates to share information and contribute to important conversations about the evolving labour market. Through panel discussions and interactive sessions, attendees provided their perspectives on the key challenges, risks and priorities facing workers and employers today.
Discussions explored a range of topics, including the employment rights agenda, emerging labour market issues, lessons from those with lived experience of labour abuse or exploitation, and examples of best practice that can support compliance and drive positive outcomes across the labour market.
Matthew Taylor CBE
Matthew Taylor CBE, Chair of the Fair Work Agency Advisory Board, said:
It was fantastic to see so many people from different sectors come together to discuss the issues that matter most as we build the Fair Work Agency. One of the strongest messages from the day was the willingness of people to work collaboratively.
Tackling non-compliance and exploitation cannot be achieved by any one organisation acting alone. By working alongside businesses, academics, trade unions and voluntary organisations, we can help create a fairer labour market that protects both workers and responsible employers.
We are building the Fair Work Agency as part of a wider ecosystem, and strong partnerships will be essential to our success. I would like to thank all our delegates, panel speakers and Advisory Board members for their valuable contributions and insights, which will help shape our approach in the years ahead.
Lisa Pinney OBE
Lisa Pinney OBE, Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Work Agency, said:
Building strong partnerships is fundamental to creating a fair labour market. While enforcement is an important part of our role, we also want to be recognised as an organisation that supports businesses to do the right thing and helps improve compliance across the labour market.
Listening to delegates today and hearing their views on the challenges and opportunities facing workers and employers has been invaluable. We are grateful to everyone who took the time to contribute and share their experiences.
This Assembly marks the beginning of a conversation. We look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders as we build an innovative organisation that delivers positive outcomes for both workers and employers.