The Minister for Workforce Participation, the Hon Dr Sharman Stone MP, today announced the release of the Mature Age Employment Practical Guide, an online, one-stop resource for employing people over 45 in Australia.
Designed to address the needs of small and medium-sized businesses, the Guide includes case studies, ‘how to’ information, Australian Workplace Agreement sample clauses, links to additional resources and a ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ section to address common queries such as:
- how to find experienced workers;
- how to keep valuable older workers;
- what to do to become a preferred employer; or
- what to review in my HR policies and practices in response to the changing workforce.
“By implementing the basic strategies in the Guide, businesses will be able to tap into the financial benefits of employing mature age staff to meet their skills needs,” Minister Stone said.
“With unemployment at record lows and a strong demand for skilled, experienced workers, employers have been asking for practical advice on how to attract and retain valuable staff. The online format of the Guide makes it easy to find the specific information time-strapped small and medium-sized employers require to meet their business needs.”
The Guide covers a range of topics, including workforce planning, recruitment, retention, flexible work practices, superannuation and payroll implications, health and safety, and training issues. Each chapter provides practical advice and resources for businesses at all stages of implementing age positive workplace practices.
The Mature Age Employment Practical Guide is available at http://www.jobwise.gov.au/Jobwise/Employers/PracticalGuide/.