The Law of Work

The Law of Work is the first book to integrate fully the new ‘WorkChoices’ legislation. It provides readers with a firm foundation for understanding the changing nature of the law of workplace relations in Australia.

Changes in the world of work have been dramatic in recent times, reflecting the growth of the service sector, increasing demands for more flexible employment patterns, and other pressures such as those exerted by technological advances and globalisation. At the same time, the composition of the work force has been radically transformed in a way that indicates a divergence from the traditional model of the worker as 'male breadwinner'.

The law of work, as both productive and responsive to these changes, has itself recently undergone fundamental shifts including, paradoxically, the privatisation of labour relations and the growing recognition of its human rights dimensions.

The book reflects the authors’ view that the social and economic context is of critical importance in comprehending the law. The Law of Work offers an accessible explanation and critique of the fundamental legal principles and, through its discussion of future directions, students are encouraged to re-evaluate the nature, scope and importance of employment and labour law.

Key Features:-

• Reconceptualises the subject matter of employment and labour relations law in Australia
• Presents a strong analysis and critique of the fundamental legal principles
• The International and global context of the law of work is given prominence in the text