September 23 has been circled on calendars for months, and now the 2017 General Election is just days away. Political parties have released their policies and the election frenzy is ever-intensifying. What might these policies mean for employment standards? Where do the major political parties stand on important employment issues?

The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) has issued a new set of rules for on-course apparel which have received considerable backlash from golfers and fans alike. The new rules forbid female golfers from wearing plunging necklines, leggings, collar-less shirts or revealing skirts on the course. A breach of these new rules will carry a $1000 fine that doubles each time the player reoffends.

When allegations such as sexual harassment, bullying, or theft are made against an employee the employer must investigate the allegations before finding misconduct. There is a common misconception that such an investigation must be flawless for the employer to have acted justifiably. However, a recent Court of Appeal case clarifies the law around what constitutes a sufficient investigation.

2016 saw legislative changes introduced to give greater protection to important minimum employment standards. The change of approach from a ‘slap on the wrist’ to hefty penalties is evident through the Employment Relations Authority ordering an Auckland car valet company to pay $241,450 for failing to pay minimum wage and holiday pay.