As the landscape of electrical contracting in Australia evolves, compliance with the MA000025 Modern Award becomes increasingly crucial. Whether you’re operating in New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC), or Queensland (QLD), understanding the requirements laid out in this award helps mitigate risks and ensures fair treatment for all employees. This blog provides a comprehensive checklist for compliance in 2025, focusing on critical aspects of risk prevention.
What is the Electrical Award 2025?
MA000025 is the Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Contracting Award 2020, establishing minimum pay, conditions, and rights for workers in the electrical contracting industry across Australia. Employers must familiarize themselves with this document to maintain compliance and avoid potential disputes.
Why is Compliance Important?
Compliance is essential not only to fulfill legal obligations but also to minimize risks associated with penalties, disputes, and employee dissatisfaction. In 2025, adherence to MA000025 will be more rigorously enforced, making it vital for electrical contractors to stay informed and prepared.
Who Does MA000025 Cover?
The MA000025 award covers various roles within the electrical contracting sector, including:
- Electricians
- Electrical apprentices
- Electrical trades assistants
- Solar installers
How to Ensure Compliance?
Here’s a step-by-step compliance checklist for electrical contractors in 2025:
- Review Award Conditions: Ensure you are familiar with all terms stipulated in MA000025, including pay rates, classifications, and allowances.
- Proper Classification of Apprentices: Verify the correct classification for apprentices under the new standards effective from January 2025 to avoid penalties.
- Emergency Work Allowances: Make sure to pay employees the appropriate emergency work allowances as outlined in the award.
- Tool Reimbursement Policies: Establish and document a policy for tool reimbursements, ensuring that any claim over $250 for specialist tools is properly paid and documented.
- Regular Training: Provide ongoing training for both management and employees on compliance requirements to ensure everyone is informed and aligned.
- Use Compliance Resources: Download the MA000025 Compliance Self-Checklist from our website for a detailed guide on conducting internal audits that align with Fair Work standards.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check authoritative resources like the Fair Work Commission to stay updated on any changes to the award.
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FAQs About the Electrical Award 2025
Q1: Does MA000025 cover solar installers?
A1: Yes, if they perform electrical work (e.g., wiring, panel installation).
Q2: Are apprentices paid under this award?
A2: Yes, apprentices receive graduated pay rates (40-90% of Level 1 wage).
Q3：How is shift work calculated?
A3: Afternoon shifts: +15%, Night shifts: +30%.
Q4：What’s the minimum engagement period?
A4：4 hours for casuals, 3 hours for part-timers.
Q5: Can Workstem help with casual employee management?
A5: Absolutely. Workstem supports casual loading, dynamic rosters, and real-time tracking to ensure casual workers are paid correctly and fairly under the award.
Q6: Is Workstem compliant with Fair Work and STP2?
A6: Yes, Workstem is fully compliant with Fair Work obligations and Single Touch Payroll Phase 2 (STP2), ensuring seamless reporting to the ATO.
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