Fair Work system
The Fair Work system is the national framework established by the Fair Work Act 2009. It sets minimum employment standards and regulates various employment and industrial matters across Australia.
This system provides a foundational structure for employment in Australia, establishing minimum standards for pay, hours, leave, and other working conditions. It also includes mechanisms for resolving industrial disputes, handling unfair dismissal claims, and regulating union and employer activities. It's essentially the rulebook for fair and legal employment practices in Australia.
The parts of the Fair Work system
The Fair Work system is built on the Fair Work Act 2009 and includes the National Employment Standards, modern awards, enterprise agreements and the national minimum wage. Two bodies run it: the Fair Work Commission, which is the tribunal, and the Fair Work Ombudsman, which is the regulator. It covers most private sector employers, but some public sector employers and unincorporated Western Australian businesses are covered by state systems. For example, a Melbourne retailer must follow the National Employment Standards and the General Retail Industry Award 2020.
Read our guide to Fair Work in Australia.
General information only
This content is general information about Australian employment law, current at the date it was last reviewed. It does not take your circumstances into account and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, call Employment Compass on 1300 144 002.
Last reviewed: October 2026
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