Essay on Industrial Relations The role of government on industrial relations is very important as it defines the legal framework in which industrial relations operates. Appropriate industrial relations legislation should recognize the needs of both employers and employees. Both the employee and the employer want to profit from each other, but they also depend on each other. This means that the equal bargaining power of employers and workers must be recognized (Peetz, David. 2006). Appropriate industrial relations laws should address any power imbalance and give both groups an equal degree of control. Adequate industrial relations should not only allow for a combination of collective and individual bargaining, but should also facilitate employee participation in daily decisions in the workplace. After all, it is the structure and framework of the employment relationship, which is regulated by legislation, that leads to good industrial relations. One of the major debates surrounding industrial relations in Australia is the method used to organize and manage work. Although both the current government and the opposition share divergent views on current industrial relations laws, most issues concern the use of third parties or trade unions, individualist and collectivist frameworks, and individual vs. individual bargaining. collective. According to Accel-Team, appropriate industrial relations laws exist to protect both parties by protecting the weak (hence the minimum wage); unlawful discrimination (race, sex, etc.); determine minimum standards of safety, health, hygiene and minimum working conditions (sick leave, annual leave, etc.) to prevent abuse of power by both parties (Accel-team. 2005). If all these areas are addressed in the best interests of both workers and managers, then this has the potential to lead to good industrial relations. When considering good industrial relations it is important to note that both perspectives of the relationship want different outcomes. Workers want good conditions and a wage that adequately reflects their efforts and skills. Employees also want to have a say in the organization and want to be able to play a role in making decisions, particularly those that have a direct impact on their ongoing employment (company acquisitions, e.g. Qantas or outsourcing deals) . On the other hand, employers want workers to be productive and efficient with minimal financial sacrifice (Trish Todd. 2006). One common element that both sides want is control and power. I believe that adequate industrial relations laws should provide equality and fairness to both employee and employer. These laws should protect workers by ensuring they have adequate wages and conditions.