New Zealand accountants urge for WFH tax policy
Chartered accountants in the country are calling for tax laws to be passed as working from home becomes the new norm.
Singapore’s fair employment guidelines to become law
The current guidelines on anti-discrimination at workplaces will be “enshrined” into law, giving the fair employment watchdog more teeth.
“No vaccine, no work” policy examined in the Philippines
A labour group has urged the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) to investigate companies which discriminate against unvaccinated workers.
DOLE seeks to end endo bill in the Philippines
“End of contract” refers to a highly contested form of contractualisation where workers are hired for not more than five months.
10-day sick leave rule takes effect in New Zealand
The legislation doubling the minimum number of sick leave from five to 10 took effect on Saturday, July 24, for employees in New Zealand.
New law on workplace disaster opposed in South Korea
Employer groups are opposing a new law that will allow CEOs to be punished, even by imprisonment, for serious workplace disasters.
China seeks to protect rights of workers in flexible employment
The government is working out new laws to protect the rights of workers, especially those in flexible employment.
New Zealand officials opposes Labour’s Fair Pay Agreement proposal
Some government officials are rejecting Labour’s Fair Pay Agreement (FPA) plan in favour of tightening existing employment laws.
Australian unions reject proposal that collects worker vaccination data
Under the proposal, large employers would be able to act as vaccine hubs, granted indemnity to vaccinate staff and collect employees’ vaccination records.
Decoding the priorities that will shape the future of work
Day 2 of HR Tech Fest Connect 2021 examined key workforce issues such as skills building, remote work management, leadership and employee wellbeing.
Taiwan passes amendment to foreign talent recruitment bill
The Legislative Yuan has approved an amendment to an act that will lower requirements for foreign white-collar professionals seeking work in Taiwan.
New Zealand restarts working holiday visa
The decision to restart the working visa programme was welcomed by tourism employers, who would have access to a pool of offshore workers.
Philippines to dole out compensation to COVID-19-positive workers
To receive the compensation, workers will need to present a certificate of employment, an RT-PCR test, and accompanying medical records.
Taiwan cabinet approves measures to attract foreign talent
The amendment to the law would also allow foreign professionals to enjoy greater tax concessions, from the current three years to five years.
South Korea’s revised labour law allows more flexibile work week
The Ministry of Employment and Labour has increased the period which employers can have more flexibility in implementing the 52-hour work week.
South Korea’s revision of law leaves labourers still vulnerable
The latest revision of the Workplace Harassment Prevention Law (WHPL) fails to protect subcontractors and labourers facing harassment.
Taiwan approves bill for workers’ accident insurance in small companies
The bill proposes that companies employing less than five workers must insure their staff for occupational accidents.
China plans to raise retirement age in phases
Under the country’s five-year plan, the retirement age will be raised in a “phased manner”, said China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.
Foreigners on a dependant’s pass will need a work pass to work in Singapore
Businesses hiring DP holders will have to comply with the requirements for hiring, which includes the relevant quotas, levies and qualifying salaries.
New Zealand government approves improved Holidays Act
The revised Holidays Act will provide clarity to employers and help employees receive their leave entitlements.
Hong Kong’s minimum wage to remain at HK$37.50 an hour
The decision was made after a review from government officials, academics and business representatives showed majority consensus.
Taiwan protects working rights of middle-aged and senior workers
The Executive Yuan has passed a new Act to address the challenges of an ageing population and potential future labour shortages.
Hong Kong government plans to increase number of statutory holidays
Labour minister Law Chi-Kwong said the proposal to gradually increase the number of statutory holidays from 12 to 17 by 2030 is “most acceptable”.
Malaysia sees more protection for workers’ rights take effect in January
Employers or employees may now be represented by any person of their choice, excluding lawyers, during dispute processes.
All foreign workers In Malaysia must be screened for COVID-19 starting Jan 1
The order would see all foreign workers spanning all sectors to undergo mandatory screening.
India revamps quarterly employment surveys
Starting from March next year, the government will launch a more comprehensive All India Quarterly Base Establishment Survey (AIQBES).
China bans discrimination in job recruitments
The new ruling takes effect on March 1, 2021, and will require HR agencies to secure the protection of their candidate’s personal information.
Employers of apprentices in Australia could receive A$4,000 of incentives
The government programme aims to support up to 80,000 additional apprenticeships over five years, particularly in industries with skill gaps to fill.
Thailand moves to attract foreign investments
The government plans to revise various regulations in immigration, foreign business and other areas to attract more foreign direct investment next year.
Retirement-fund body to provide social security cover for informal workers in India
The EPFO faces the huge challenge to cover 400 million informal workers.