Department of Industrial Relations

Industrial relations is the management of work-related obligations and entitlements between employers and their employees. On 1 January 2010, Queensland's industrial relations for the private sector moved from a state system to a national system, legislated through the Fair Work Act 2009. Some jurisdiction remained under the Queensland Industrial Relations Act 1999including administering industrial relations for the public sector, local government and other state responsibilities not provided for in the national system.

In Australia, industrial relations laws cover employment issues such as minimum wages, employment standards and pay equity. These laws also cover hours of work and leave entitlements, and protect employees from discrimination and unfair dismissal.

Under Australian industrial relations laws, employees are granted freedom of association, which allows them to decide whether to join unions. The laws also outline employee rights regarding industrial action, such as strikes.