The PIAA has hired Sam Puri to the role of industrial advocate, officially starting in his role on January 14.
Sam will be overseeing the operation of PIAA Workplace Relations bureau, the online HR services portfolio, Fair Work advocacy, and VET advocacy.
Andrew Macaulay, CEO, PIAA, expects 2019 to be significant for industrial relations policy, with a federal election on the horizon, issues around the definition of casual work yet to be resolved, and union groups flexing their muscle in recent months.
He says, “I am quite concerned, it is good that Puri is with us.
“Puri officially started in his role yesterday, but had met with a ministerial advisory team on Friday regarding foreign labour visa issues. He has already helped a member with a time-sensitive issue by using his contacts and expertise.
“The depth of experience and contacts that Puri has in this area will be important. The ACTU and unions have been flexing their muscles, leading the charge for IR changes, and it will be a big focus of the coming election.
“There have already been talks around industry super funds, a potential ideological dispute between the two major parties.
“I was involved in discussions yesterday around superannuation policy, and Sam will be involved in that.
“The definition of casual labour is a time bomb which is still yet to be resolved.”
Sam Puri has led industrial relations services at an employer focussed advisory firm and in HR generalist roles in commercial environments. Puri has experience across Case Management; Common Law Contracts; Employment Conditions (NES); Employment Law & Tribunal Cases (FWC/FC/FCC); Employment Legislation; Industrial Frameworks; Industrial Instruments (Enterprise Agreements/Agreement-based transitional instruments/Modern Awards/Award-based transitional instruments) Industrial Relations Legislation and Policies (Interpretation, Development & Implementation).
Anthony Pittaway, director, PIAA, says, “Regional members of PIAA will benefit from this deepening of Workplace Relations skills as we continue to enhance the services available to members, and I look forward to working with Sam in the coming months.”
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