The Labour Government brought in a 'Right To Switch Off' which was introduced through the fair work act. This legislation was passed to allow employees to refuse work-related contact with their employers after their working hours unless the refusal was unreasonable. This right was firstly phased in with lager businesses before moving through to smaller businesses. The legislation protects employees from punishment for not responding to after hours contact. This communication is linked to emails, phone calls and text messages.

This has given greater incentive for employees to do the work during their employed hours with an understanding theu can switch off at the end of each day. Employers now understand that theu need to prepare ahead fo time and set up platforms that avoids them contacting their employees after hours. This promotes a more effective work environment by both parties.

These reforms aim to improve how environmental decisions are made. The new laws allow the Government to set clear National Environmental Standards that all major projects must meet. They also introduce rules that prevent projects from going ahead if they would cause unacceptable impacts on important environmental areas. Another part of the reform is the creation of a new national regulator—the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA)—which will start operating in 2026. This agency will be responsible for enforcing the new standards and overseeing environmental approvals.

This example shows how a government policy can be turned into practical action through legislation. By updating the EPBC Act, the Government has created stronger and more consistent rules for protecting Australia’s environment, which now apply to industries, developers, and government projects across the country.

• Clinical supports: no contribution by the individual for clinical support services such as nursing and physiotherapy. This is fully funded by the government.

• Independence: moderate contribution by individuals for independence services such as personal care*, and products and equipment under the Assistive Technology-Home Modifications scheme.

• Everyday living: highest contributions by individuals for everyday living services such as domestic help and gardening.

*From 1 October 2026, the Australian Government will fully fund personal care services.

An income and assets assessment determines an individual’s percentage of contribution.

The amendments require employers to pay superannuation contributions at the same time as employees receive their wages rather than quarterly. The reforms commenced on 1 July 2026 and require contribution to each employee’s super funds within seven business day of payday.

The policy aims to reduce unpaid or delayed superannuation, improve transparency and allow employees to benefit from earlier investment returns through compound earnings. It also increases accountability by enabling the ATO to monitor super payment more effectively.