This website applies only to residents and the law of New South Wales, Australia.

2. CHECKLIST (continued)

New South Wales or Federal system?

Step 2: Work out whether your employment was covered by a state or federal award or agreement

In New South Wales, employers and employees can be covered by either the federal or state industrial relations systems, and be employed under federal or state awards and agreements. Awards and collective and individual agreements (AWAs) are legal documents (sometimes called industrial instruments) that set standards of employment conditions and entitlements such as pay rates, annual leave, parenting leave and the required period of notice for termination of employment. There are different awards or agreements for different occupations, industries and workplaces. Some employees are not covered by any award or collective agreement or AWA.

The award or agreement should be displayed at your workplace but often it is not. If you don't know the name of your award or agreement, or even whether you are covered by one, you need to check the options below to work out your situation.

1. Workplace Infoline (previously the Federal Wageline) on 1300 363 264 (free call within NSW).
   Click to go to the website.
2. NSW Office of Industrial Relations Awards Enquiry Service on 131 628.
   Click to go to the website.
3. NSW Industrial Relations Commission (for state Enterprise Agreements).
   Click to go to the website.

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