Australia to establish new Fair Work Court

The Albanese Labor government announced plans for a federal Fair Work Court aimed at delivering faster, simpler and more accessible resolution of workplace relations disputes. The court would sit alongside the Fair Work Commission and be staffed by specialist judges with expertise in employment law. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australians “should not have to wait years for justice, or be told their case will cost more than their claim.” The Australian Council of Trade Unions welcomed the proposal, arguing that the current system allows well‑resourced employers to drag out cases and deter workers from pursuing claims.

The opposition Liberal Party questioned the need for a new judicial layer, warning that it could add complexity rather than reduce it. Critics asked how the court would interact with the existing commission, whether it could overturn commission decisions, and whether it would create additional litigation for employers. The government will launch a consultation process later this year to shape the court’s design and its relationship with the commission.