HR policies & procedures for small businesses

Protect your business with essential HR policies and procedures to streamline your operations and minimise legal risks in Australia.

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Workplace foundations with HR policies

Australian businesses of all sizes need a robust set of HR policies and procedures. Without them, businesses risk serious legal and financial consequences. But creating and implementing these essential HR policies can be complex and time-consuming.

We specialise in tailoring core HR policies and procedures to the needs of Australian small businesses. Our workplace relations specialists align your HR policies with the Fair Work Act and the National Employment Standards.

Prevent costly workplace & employment issues
Spend less time on HR admin & documentation
Make confident decisions with expert guidance
Get tailored HR policies

Businesses rely on our tailored HR policies & procedures

“Thanks for giving us peace of mind and letting us focus on our business”

They have helped us through some tricky situations and have kept us informed and compliant when employment law has changed in Australia. Thanks team for giving us peace of mind and letting us focus on our business.

Anne I, GST Bookkeeping Specialists

“Took out all the guess work in helping us navigate the redundancy process”

The team at Employment Compass are phenomenal. They have helped my business when we were trying to downsize and took out all the guess work in helping us navigate the process. Thanks team and so glad you’re our HR company.

Elie B, Dencorp Constructions

“Professional, empathetic guidance, and focus on our business needs”

We were facing a sensitive employee issue, and Employment Compass was by our side the whole way. Their professional, empathetic guidance, and focus on our business needs were invaluable.

Olivia R, The Learning Tree Preschool

“Employment Compass has been absolutely essential”

For small businesses like ours that need HR support without building an entire department, Employment Compass has been absolutely essential. We highly recommend them to any company looking for HR services.

Nathan Q, Quinn Marketing

“The freedom to focus on business growth”

Employment Compass handles all our HR needs with exceptional professionalism. Their HR experts take care of contracts, policies, and workplace issues, giving us complete peace of mind and the freedom to focus on business growth.

Kate M, Main Street Boutique

Your business is our priority

Focus on your core business while we take care of your HR policies and procedures. Our comprehensive HR policy services provide peace of mind.

Free HR policy consultation

24/7 HR Advice

Get tailored HR advice by phone or email, 24/7. Our Australian HR consultants help you apply your policies, answer your HR policy questions and work through workplace issues as they arise.

Compliant HR Policies

Gain peace of mind with our HR Health Check. We review your workplace practices, identify risk areas and create a detailed action plan so your HR policies and procedures align with the Fair Work Act and other Australian employment legislation.

Employee Relations

Build a stronger, more productive workplace with our tailored HR services. We help you implement best HR practices, create positive employee relations strategies, and develop a culture aligned with your business goals.

HR Policy Toolkits

Simplify your HR administration with our comprehensive toolkit. Access a library of legally sound, Australian-specific HR policies, procedures, contracts, forms, and templates – all regularly updated to reflect current laws.

Fair Work Representation

Protect your business from costly legal issues. Clear HR policies and procedures reduce the risk of unfair dismissal claims and employee disputes, and if a claim is made, we support you through the Fair Work Commission process.

Onsite HR Policy Support

Get hands-on help from Compass Onsite. We can run training sessions, conduct workplace reviews and provide ongoing support so your policies and procedures are put into practice.

HR policies & procedures in 3 steps

1. Library of HR policies and procedures

Gain instant access to our extensive library of expertly crafted HR policies, procedures, contracts, and guides. All documents are meticulously tailored to meet Australian employment laws and regularly updated to reflect any changes.

2. Stay informed with proactive updates

We keep you informed about evolving legislation, ensuring your HR policies and procedures remain current and compliant. Receive proactive alerts and recommendations to address potential compliance risks before they become problems.

3. HR policy help when you need it

Our team of employment law experts is available to answer your questions, provide guidance and help you manage HR issues. Get tailored HR advice specific to your industry, company size and circumstances.

Essential HR policies & procedures for Australian businesses

Core HR Policies & Procedures

Employment Standards

  • Leave Entitlements
  • Pay and Entitlements
  • Code of Conduct
  • Flexible Working Arrangements

Workplace Safety

  • Workplace Health and Safety (WHS)
  • Drug and Alcohol Policy
  • Disaster Recovery Plan
  • Anti-Discrimination and Harassment

Data Protection

  • Privacy Policy
  • Confidential Information
  • Intellectual Property
  • Document Control

Employee Relations & Conduct

Performance & Discipline

  • Performance Management
  • Disciplinary Policy
  • Grievance Procedure
  • Bullying Policy

Employee Behaviour

  • Social Media Policy
  • IT Usage Policy
  • Conflict of Interest
  • Gift and Benefits Policy

Development & Support

  • Training and Development
  • Professional Development Policy
  • Mentorship Program Policy
  • Whistleblower Policy

Need HR advice? Talk to an expert.

Your HR policy and procedure questions answered.

Find the answers you need about essential HR policies and procedures, staying compliant with Australian employment law, and best practices for managing your workplace.

What are essential HR policies for Australian businesses?

Essential policies cover areas like employee conduct, equal employment opportunity, leave entitlements, performance management, and workplace health and safety. Our HR retainer services give you access to a comprehensive library of Australian-tailored policies for these key areas.

How do I create effective HR policies and procedures?

Effective policies and procedures require understanding legal requirements, tailoring to your business, clear language, effective communication, and regular updates. Our HR experts offer guidance and templates to streamline this process.

How can I ensure my HR policies and procedures are compliant with Australian law?

Regular review, updates and reference to Fair Work Ombudsman resources are key to compliance. Our HR retainer services include policy updates and expert support to help you stay compliant. For complex matters, call our 24/7 HR advice line.

Do I need separate HR policies and procedures?

Yes. Policies set out the principles and rules, while procedures give step-by-step instructions for putting them into practice. Our HR policies and procedures library includes both.

Where can I find HR policy templates for my small business in Australia?

The Fair Work Ombudsman has free basic templates, but generic HR policy templates won't reflect your award or how your business works. Our HR policy services tailor them to your business. Our guide to employment contracts explains what to include.

How often should I review and update my HR policies?

It's best practice to review your HR policies and procedures annually to ensure they stay aligned with changes in legislation, industry standards, and your own business needs. Additionally, consider reviewing policies whenever there are significant changes in employment laws and your business.

Have an HR policy & procedure question? Get answers here.

Don't let HR questions hold your business back. Our team is here to provide support tailored to your business. Contact us today for a free consultation and let's find the right solutions for your workplace.

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