Racing Victoria launches new employment resource HR Assist

From Monday (9 February), all licensed participants in Victoria will gain free and confidential access to qualified employment advice, education and issue resolution through the new HR Assist service.

An extension of Racing Victoria’s (RV) participant wellbeing program, HR Assist is a dedicated resource available to any participants who wish to consult with experts on conditions of employment and other workplace matters.

While RV is funding the service, it will be delivered by an independent organisation, iHR Australia. Users of the service will be granted three sessions (up to 60 minutes in total) with an employment specialist for each matter. All advisory sessions will be treated in the strictest confidence, with no personal or identifying information shared with RV.

The program has been designed to increase industry participants’ knowledge and understanding of employment law, which should in turn lead to greater compliance, higher staff retention rates and a healthier workplace culture.

The service will be offered on weekdays (Monday to Friday) between the hours of 9am-5pm, with RV set to measure the effectiveness and demand of the service after an initial six-month pilot.

The service can be accessed by calling 1300 884 687, with users required to state that they require advice under the Racing Victoria HR Assist support service. Alternatively, you can email a member of the team at iHR Australia on rvhra@ihraustralia.com.

“In acknowledging the incredible effort and dedication contributed by our racing workforce, it is vitally important that all participants understand their employment rights and responsibilities in an industry that operates around the clock,” said Aaron Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of Racing Victoria.

“With the support of the ATA, Racing Victoria is delighted to partner with iHR Australia to launch HR Assist, which we believe is a significant investment in our industry and its people.

“I would encourage anyone who is experiencing a workplace issue, and is unsure of how to navigate it, to use this free and confidential service.”

Stephen Bell, Chief Executive of the Australian Trainers’ Association, added: “The ATA applauds the establishment of the HR Assist service, which is a great initiative by RV.

“In addition to the support already provided by the ATA, HR Assist will equip all trainers and their stable staff with further access to independent advice and important information about wages, conditions of employment and the management of workplace matters.

“It can be tough running any business, and particularly a racing stable, so we believe this service will be of great benefit to many people in the industry.”

“Employment law in Australia can be a bit of a maze, and it’s totally normal for people to feel unsure about what’s required,” said Paul Dave, Manager – Workplace Relations, iHR Australia.

“While getting things wrong can cause headaches for both businesses and workers, it doesn’t have to be stressful. By offering practical advice, iHR can help people feel confident and supported. Together, we can build better workplaces and create positive change.”

For more information and the answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the HR Assist webpage on https://www.racingvictoria.com.au/participants/HR-Assist.