The Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) is seeking feedback on its draft policy relating to exemptions issued under s281 Industrial Relations Act 1996 (IR Act).
The IRC has been auditing its records and reviewing Organisations’ compliance with reporting obligations under the IR Act. Some organisations are federally registered and must report similar information to both the Fair Work Commission and the IRC unless an exemption applies.
The purpose of the policy is to outline how the Industrial Registrar will assess applications for exemptions under s281. It provides transparency about the criteria, process, and expectations, so Industrial Organisations understand when an exemption may be granted and how to remain compliant with their obligations in the IR Act.
Consultation Period
We welcome feedback or written submissions from all Industrial Organisations, Employee Organisations and other stakeholders.
Submissions close: 1 February 2026
How to Provide Feedback
Please send your comments or submissions to: industrial.registrar@courts.nsw.gov.au
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