Stewart's Guide to Employment Law

Title: Stewart's Guide to Employment Law by Andrew Stewart

Overview: "Stewart's Guide to Employment Law" is a comprehensive and highly regarded book that provides an in-depth exploration of employment law in Australia. The book is renowned for its succinct and accessible coverage of this complex area of the law, making it essential reading for anyone needing an introduction to employment law.

Key Themes:

1. Introduction to Employment Law: The book begins with an introduction to employment law, covering its development and coverage in Australia.
2. Who is an Employee?: It delves into the definition and regulation of employees, including discussions on the gig economy and the determination of whether workers are employees.
3. Special Types of Employment: The guide covers various special types of employment, such as casual employment, and the recent High Court decisions on these topics.
4. Impact of COVID-19: The new edition addresses the impact of COVID-19 on employment law, including issues like standing down employees, working from home, pandemic leave, and vaccination policies.
5. Regulatory Changes: It explores the amendments to the Fair Work Act, including those made by the Morrison Government, particularly the changes to casual employment and the Omnibus Bill.
6. Women in the Workplace: The book discusses controversies and developments affecting women in the workplace, such as sexual harassment, pay equity, and leave for victims of family and domestic violence.
7. Modern Awards and Case Law: It covers the changes made by the Fair Work Commission in modern awards and significant new cases on unfair dismissal, adverse action, and enterprise agreements.

Critical Reception:

• Australian Journal of Labour Law: Describes the book as "a masterpiece of clarity and succinct exposition of the law," highlighting its unique expertise and cohesive style.
• Charles Sturt University: Recommends the book as a highly regarded and dependable choice for anyone needing an introduction to employment law.
• Federation Press: Emphasizes the book's accessibility and its essential nature for understanding employment law in Australia.

Editions and Updates: The book has been updated to incorporate recent case law, including the High Court decision in WorkPac v Rossato (4 August 2021), and other developments up to July 2021. The sixth edition is available in paperback and is a trusted resource for both practitioners and students of employment law.

In summary, "Stewart's Guide to Employment Law" is a comprehensive and highly regarded resource that provides a clear and cohesive overview of employment law in Australia, addressing both foundational concepts and recent developments in the field.