By Claire Hibbit

The president of the Fair Work Commission (FWC) believes a single higher ‘loaded’ hourly rate of pay in lieu of weekend penalty rates would simplify the current system for small businesses and allow for more flexibility.Speaking at the AFR Retail Summit in Melbourne last week, FWC president, Iain Ross, suggested a loaded rates schedule, whereby employees receive a higher flat hourly rate in place of penalty rates, with the rate negotiated between the worker and employer.

The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said it believes such a regime, provided it does not come with an excessive administrative burden, would be of great benefit to small businesses in particular, as it would substantially simplify their payroll processes.

Read more here.

This story first appeared in C&I Week.