Industrial Relations 101

Finally!! An Online practical course in Industrial Relations!!

If you are a HR Generalist looking to become an IR Specialist, or an Operations Manager looking to build your IR capacity or a recent graduate looking to break into an IR career, then Industrial Relations 101 _TM is for you.

Modules are run online by IRIQ Expert Theresa Moltoni. The course will run over 12 online modules. Each module combines theory, various forms of medium and is focussed on developing skills and knowledge for practical application.

For those who complete the 12 modules, there is an optional face to face practical intensive where you will put your newly learnt skills into practice!

All course participants will receive a Certificate of Completion.

Additional courses can be customised for your Company, location, audience or topic.

CLICK HERE to download the program flyer

Course Information

IR101 Course Overview
IR101 Frequently Asked Questions
IR101 Booking Form
Module 1 - IR in Context
Module 2 - Interpreting Instruments
Module 3 - Performance & Terminations
Module 4 - Agreement Making
Module 5 - Disputes & Negotiating
Module 6 - Workplace Investigations
Module 7 – Contracts of employment and Safety (an Industrial Relations Overview)
Module 8 - Practical IR Strategies
Module 9 - Advocacy & Conciliation
Module 10 - Right of Entry Including Safety Rights of Entry
Module 11 - Run a hearing in the FWC
Module 12 - Strategic IR

IR101 Course Overview

The online modules offered for the IR101 Program are:

Module 1 – The history and context of Industrial Relations in Australia This covers the political history and legal development of industrial relations with a particular focus on the current system. It puts Industrial Relations in context and provides an essential insight into the relationships and motivations of Industrial Relations stakeholders in Australia.
Module 2 – Analysing and interpreting Awards and Agreements. This will involve developing practical skills around interpreting awards and agreements and understanding how tribunals will interpret disputes. Also provides an overview of some relevant and current Case law.
Module 3 – Performance Management and Terminations (including abandonment of employment and redundancy). This module covers managing performance and terminations. The principles and application of natural justice and procedural fairness are also learned.
Module 4 – Agreement Making. Understand the legal requirements, good faith bargaining (including dealing with employee and union claims), scope orders, what forms to use, FWC processes. What forms to use for lodgement. Types of Agreements. Discussion and strategy work on what best might suit your organisation. Developing a log of claims.
Module 5 – Dispute Resolution and Negotiation Skills. Comparison of different types of clauses and their pros and cons. Understanding the model clause and its requirements. Understanding the motives and reasons for disputes and how they might be resolved. Understanding legal options to address disputes. General protections disputes. Negotiation skills – types of styles, when and how to employ them. Planning for negotiation exercises.
Module 6 – Workplace Investigations. Effectively manage bullying, harassment and discrimination complaints. Learn how to conduct Workplace Investigations into allegations of: misconduct, workplace bullying, harassment and discrimination. Learn how to take witness statements. Learn essential elements such as investigation techniques, the principles of Natural Justice, applying Procedural Fairness, pitfalls to avoid, tips for ensuring your processes are well documented and defensible, assessing witness credibility, determining your findings, weighing and considering evidence and making recommendations.
Module 7 – Contracts of Employment and Safety (an Industrial Relations Overview). What should you include? Examines current case law over employment contracts and things like restraint of trade, intellectual property and confidentiality. The Safety overview covers Workers compensation, OHS and rehabilitation. It examines Employer and employee obligation and looks at changes to case law and harmonisation of the different systems from an IR perspective.
Module 8 – Employee Engagement and Industrial Action. Essential in any IR Strategy, learn when to employ it, methods of consultation, setting up committees, focus groups and direct engagement. Types of communication, strategies and essential workplace tools. Legal obligations and responses to unprotected industrial action. Industrial Torts. Secondary boycotts – what are they and how do they work?
Module 9 – Conciliation and Advocacy. Includes a tour of the Fair Work Commission, an overview of how to behave in a tribunal. Who’s who in FWC. Preparing a case and evidence such as witness statements and statutory declarations.
Module 10 – Right of Entry including Safety Rights of Entry. Learn all about Right of Entry under the Fair Work Act and how it interacts with Safety Right of Entry. We will show you what is required, what can be done upon entry, where they can go and what they can do. Understand the form of an Entry Notice and its requirements in order to be valid. Also learn how to check Entry Permits. Give yourself the confidence to handle these situations.
Module 11 – Advanced Advocacy – Running a Hearing in the FWC. Preparing your case, preparing submissions, Cross examination skills, protocols, raising objections, presenting evidence and closing submissions. Participate in practical mock trial.
Module 12 – Strategic IR. Understanding Commercial objectives and ensuring your IR Strategy will give your business a competitive edge as well as supporting those Commercial objectives. In this very practical module you will analyse business requirements and write Industrial Relations Strategies including one for your own business.
Face to Face Practical Intensive. Put the skills and knowledge you have learnt into practice. Prepare for these scenarios with advance material that aligns to what you would experience on the job. Role play with other participants and receive valuable coaching and feedback.

IR101 Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any pre-requisite training or courses to do IR101?

No, anyone who is new to Industrial Relations or would like to strengthen their Industrial relations knowledge can do our courses.

How is the course delivered?

This is an online course that is also compatible with your tablet or iPad.
The course delivery is a virtual lecture, with slides and a voice over guiding you through the content. It incorporates theory, practical exercises and role plays through a range of visual and audio methods.
The course also has an optional 1 day face to face Practical Intensive Day once all modules have been completed.

What course materials and resources do I get?

You will be provided with all course materials e.g. handouts, videos, links etc.
You will also receive practical tools to enhance your IR practice by way of forms, guides, precedents and letters.

How many modules does the course have?

There are 12 modules in this course and they are

Industrial Relations in Context
Interpreting Instruments (Awards and Agreements)
Performance Management, Terminations & Unfair Dismissals
Agreement Making
Dispute Resolution & Negotiation Skills
Workplace Investigations, Dealing with Bullying & Harassment Complaints
Contracts of Employment
Employee Engagement
Advocacy & Conciliation
Right of Entry
Running a hearing in the FWC
Strategic IR

What is involved in the Practical Intensive Day?

The Practical Intensive Day focuses on giving you practical and hand on experience with roles plays and other activities that relate to the following modules:
- Module 3: Performance Management, Terminations & Unfair Dismissals
- Module 6: Workplace Investigations, Dealing with Bullying & Harassment Complaints
- Module 9: Advocacy & Conciliation
- Module 11: Running a Hearing in the FWC

Where is the Practical Intensive Day held?

The Practical Intensive Day is held in Brisbane.

However, for organisational / group bookings we will travel to your preferred location at an extra cost.

Will I be assessed during this course?

Yes, there are 2 types of assessments:
- There is a quiz at the end of each module to ensure understanding of the subject
- There is an assessment task after Module 2 and Module 12 which is practical and calls of applied knowledge of the course content. This assessment task is marked by one of or Employment Lawyers and you are given tailored feedback and coaching.

How up to date and relevant is the course content?

The content is up to date and relevant, our Employment Lawyers are continuously updating the content of each module as the legislation changes. Combining over 30 years practical experience in Industrial Relations, knowledge of the law with commercial strategy and acumen is not something you can find in Google or a manual.

This course gives you the benefit of wisdom gained through hindsight and experience on how to deal with complex Industrial Relations matters in a clever and strategic way. Once you have gone through each module you will be able to immediately apply the knowledge and strategies into your workplace.

How quickly can I apply what I learn?

Immediately! The skills you learn in our program can be readily applied in the workplace.

How long does each Module take to complete?

Each module can take from 2 – 5 hours depending on the subject and on how fast you go through the content.

How long do I have to complete each Module?

You have 2 weeks to complete each Module.

How long do I have to complete the entire course?

You have 12 months from the start of your first module to complete the course.

How much does it cost?

You have 2 options:

Option 1: Pay as you go

$500 plus GST per module, plus
$750 plus GST for the Practical Intensive Day

Options 2: Pay up front

$6,000 plus GST for 12 modules and get the Practical Intensive Day for FREE

How do I book into the training?

By completing our Booking form and sending it to us for processing

IR101 Booking Form

CLICK HERE to download the IR 101 Booking Form

Module 1 - IR in Context

The Context of Industrial Relations in Australia.

This Module covers the political history and legal development of industrial relations with a particular focus on the current system.

A good Practitioner recognises how important it is to understand the history of Industrial Relations which holds strong foundations and strong values for Unions, Employers and Employees. The foundations and values are so powerful that a failure to understand them will ultimately lead to a failure to be effective.

Without this knowledge, it is very difficult to appreciate where other players are coming from. This module will give you a 360 degree perspective on the thinking that comes to the Industrial Relations table.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online modules only.

Industrial Relations 101 _TMCourse Terms & Conditions

Online Courses: Courses are run online and require a modern computer, internet connection, headphones or speakers and private time. Please note that bookings can be cancelled at any time before your invitation has been sent for the first module in your program.
Face to Face Training: Where the course is a face to face course, participants who cancel within 30 days of the first date of training, will not be entitled to a refund. Participants who give at least 30 days’ notice, can elect to make up classes on other dates should they be unable to attend (and contingent on availability). Minimum of 6 participants must register for the course to run either in block mode or bi-monthly. Classes will be limited to 12 participants to ensure you receive personalised attention. Payment is required upon booking. No final Certificate of Completion will be issued until all modules are completed.

Module 2 - Interpreting Instruments

Interpreting Awards & Agreements

This module covers:

Determining which instrument will apply
Analysing and interpreting award and agreement terms
Understanding the rules of interpretation
Practical exercises in interpreting complex issues

This will involve developing practical skills around identifying and then interpreting awards and agreements and understanding how tribunals will interpret disputes.

Learn about Lawful and Reasonable directions.

What are they?
What are the benefits of using them?
Why are they so important?
What are your rights?
What do you need to know to use them in a practical way?

This module also includes an overview of current Case law on these topics.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online modules only.

Module 3 - Performance & Terminations

Performance Management, Terminations & Unfair Dismissals

A practical lesson in:

Managing Performance
Terminations
- Performance Related
- Gross, Serious and Wilful Misconduct
- Summary Dismissal
- Constructive Dismissal
- When is a Demotion a Termination?
- Documenting the process
- Writing a Warning
- Writing a Final Warning
Resignations
In the Heat of the Moment Resignations
Abandonment of Employment
Redundancy
- When is it genuine?
- What should a Redundancy letter look like?

Learn about the process of:

Natural justice
Procedural fairness
Conducting Workplace Investigations

Receive practical tools, forms, guides and letters to help you in your workplace.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 4 - Agreement Making

Agreement Making

How to make an agreement, including:

Types of Agreements
- Greenfields
- Single Enterprise
- Multi-Enterprise
Addressing the legal requirements
Instigating the Process
Good faith bargaining
Dealing with employee and union claims
Scope Orders
Bargaining Orders
Access periods
The Ballot
What are the FWC processes
What forms to use for lodgement
Discussion and strategy work on what best might suit your organisation.
Developing a log of claims

This module includes practical exercises where you can put what you have learned into action.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 5 - Disputes & Negotiating

Dispute Resolution and Negotiation Skills

In this Module we will look at:

A comparison of the different types of dispute clauses and we will examine their pros and cons.
Giving you a clear understanding of the model clause and its requirements.
Developing an understanding of the motives and reasons for disputes and how they might be resolved.
Understanding the legal options available to address disputes
General protections disputes
Negotiation skills
Developing a strategy before you begin
Different styles of negotiating
When and how to employ them
Practical exercises and Coaching
Staying in Control
The Negotiation Process
Planning tools that will ensure success
Differentiate the underlying motivators in the negotiation process
Participate in mock negotiations exercises

This Module will give you the knowledge you need to handle everyday issues that may arise as well as more significant challenges such as negotiating a new Agreement for your workplace.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 6 - Workplace Investigations

Workplace Investigations

This Module covers:

Dealing with Complaints
Having the right policies and procedures in place
Conducting the Investigation
How to ensure matters don’t escalate
Getting a long term fix
The impact on your Workplace Culture
- Identifying Solutions
- Effectively manage bullying, harassment and discrimination complaints
- Learn how to conduct Workplace Investigations into allegations of:
  - misconduct
  - workplace bullying
  - harassment and
  - discrimination
- Learn how to take witness statements
- Learn essential elements such as:
  - Investigation techniques
  - Principles of Natural Justice
  - Applying Procedural Fairness
- Pitfalls to avoid
- Tips for ensuring your processes are well documented and defensible
- Assessing witness credibility
- Determining your findings
- Weighing and considering evidence
- Making recommendations.

Getting it wrong can be very costly but handling it well will not only prevent the complaint from escalating, it may also be an opportunity for you to improve your workplace culture.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 7 – Contracts of employment and Safety (an Industrial Relations Overview)

Contracts of employment and Safety (An Industrial Relations Overview)

This covers:

What should you include.
It examines current case law over employment contracts and things like restraint of trade, intellectual property and confidentiality.

It also covers a general overview of:

Workers compensation, OHS and rehabilitation.
Employer and employee obligations.
Looking at changes to case law and harmonisation of the different systems from an IR perspective.

Module 8 - Practical IR Strategies

Employee Engagement and Industrial Action

This Module will examine strategies to create a positive proactive Industrial Relations foundation in your workplace:

Protected industrial action ballots and orders
How do Unions think and prepare for protected industrial action
How do you respond to Industrial Action?
What are your legal obligations?
Strategically preventing industrial action
Industrial Torts
Secondary boycotts – what are they and how do they work?
Direct engagement with Employees.
Communication strategies, types and method
Understanding tactics

Industrial Action can be costly, disruptive and can cause long term damage to relationships in the workplace. We believe it can be prevented with sound thinking, knowledge and effective execution of your IR strategy. This module will equip you with the tools that will put you ahead of the game.

Practical strategies, tools and case studies to sharpen your skills.

Course Cost
$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 9 - Advocacy & Conciliation

Advocacy and the Fair Work Commission

In this module you will learn about Advocacy in the Fair Work Commission.

Your learning will include:

How you should behave in a tribunal
Who’s who in the FWC
Preparing for a conciliation conference
Preparing a witness statement
Preparing responses
Making Statutory declarations
Preparing and presenting your submissions
Reaching settlements that don’t create future problems

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 10 - Right of Entry Including Safety Rights of Entry

Union Right of Entry (and how it interacts with Safety Rights of Entry)

In this module we will cover two very important topics.

Firstly we will look at Right of entry legislation and then we will look at how it works with Occupational Health and Safety Legislation.

We will look at the requirements for Entry Notices, Permits and provide you with tools to give you confidence in dealing with these issues.

We will look at the particular issues in the Construction Industry where participants are interested in this Industry.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 11 - Run a hearing in the FWC

Advanced Advocacy – Running a Hearing

Learn how to run a Hearing in the Fair Work Commission. This module covers topics such as:

Dealing with Directions Orders
How to prepare your case
Rules of Evidence
Appropriate behaviour and language
Cross examination skills
Summing Up

Hear from an expert in this very interesting module that will advance your Advocacy skills.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Module 12 - Strategic IR

Industrial Relation Strategy Development

In this final Module you will learn how to link your Industrial Relations Strategy to the Commercial imperatives of your Company and ensure that you have a winning edge.

Topics will include:

Understanding Commercial objectives
Defining the Industrial Relations Strategy that will best achieve those objectives
Execution of the Strategy

We will look at some practical case studies and participants will gain hands on experience in developing the IR Framework. Participants will then learn how to convert this into practical steps that can be executed in the workplace to support the Company’s achievement of those Commercial imperatives.

We will examine the importance of achieving flexibility in your Industrial Relations Framework to best place your business to overcome theunforeseen challenges that inevitably arise.

Course Cost

$550 per Module (inc. GST) – cost of online module only.

Client Testimonials

IRIQ's flexibility in learning solutions is suitable for our business as they offer a number of flexible options for learning including webinars, classroom training, simulation, and e-learning. I would highly recommend them to an employer seeking to balance workplace relations or HR management theory with practical outcomes.

Angela Liebke, Group HR Manager
Watpac Limited

Quite simply IRIQ is the best. Theresa and her team take the time to understand your desired outcomes and then set a strategy in place to deliver it, and deliver it fast. It is when the going gets tough that you really begin to appreciate their skill, determination and values.

David Ash, Chief Operating Officer
Procast Australia Pty Ltd

Theresa has an in-depth knowledge of all matters IR, very professional in her dealings and a pleasure to work with. Theresa was instrumental in helping us to get our collective agreement over the line.

Meaghan Chatfield, Lead HR Advisor, Perth
Transfield Worley

I was extremely happy with the service provided by IRIQ Staff and Management.

They were flexible with my learning timeframes due to personal and work commitments and provided support and clarification.The content was challenging and technical, and assisted with enhancing my knowledge of Industrial Relations.I would recommend this training to any HR/IR professional.

Cahlia Heynen, Brisbane
EC&M, IR101 Training Graduate

Theresa is a genius in the area of Industrial Relations Strategy. There are very few IR experts in Australia and Theresa is among the best. She is able to quickly analyse, recommend and deliver the IR services that your business needs.I would not hesitate to recommend Theresa to anyone seeking assistance and expertise in Workplace Relations matters.

Grace Collier, Melbourne
Industrial Relations Analyst and Columnist for The Australian