A significant slate of new legislation is set to reshape the legal landscape for Australians, with a host of major changes officially taking effect from the start of 2025. These reforms, passed by the federal parliament earlier in the year, will touch on areas from personal finance and public health to immigration and workplace rights.
Financial and Workplace Reforms
One of the most impactful changes for workers nationwide is the next scheduled increase to the superannuation guarantee. The compulsory super contribution rate will rise from 11% to 11.5% on July 1, 2025. This continues the legislated trajectory towards a 12% rate, aiming to bolster retirement savings for millions of employees.
In a move to modernise workplace laws, the definition of casual employment has been formally tightened. The new laws introduce a more precise test to determine casual status, focusing on the reality of the employment relationship rather than just the terms of the initial contract. This change is designed to provide greater clarity and fairness for workers in insecure roles.
Public Health and Immigration Shifts
From January 1, 2025, Australia will enact some of the world's toughest restrictions on vaping. The sale of all non-prescription vapes will become illegal. This includes disposable vapes and those containing nicotine, which will only be accessible through a pharmacy with a doctor's prescription. The government's goal is to curb youth vaping and treat nicotine addiction as a medical issue.
The immigration system will also see a pivotal adjustment. The government has confirmed it will abolish the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa's 'limit on stay' provision. This means skilled workers on this visa will no longer face a restriction on how long they can remain in Australia, provided they continue to meet visa conditions. The change is intended to provide more certainty for businesses and migrant workers filling critical skill gaps.
Broader Impacts and Implementation
These legislative changes represent a concerted policy push by the federal government across multiple portfolios. The superannuation increase is a long-planned measure, while the vaping crackdown and visa adjustments respond to more recent social and economic pressures.
For individuals, the implications are direct. Employees will see a slight boost in their retirement savings, though it may come with a marginal adjustment to take-home pay. Smokers and retailers must adapt to the new, prescription-only model for vaping products. Businesses reliant on skilled migrant labour will welcome the added flexibility in retaining valued staff.
As with any major legal shift, the full effect of these changes will unfold over the coming year. Regulatory bodies like the Australian Taxation Office and the Department of Home Affairs are tasked with implementing the new rules, and further guidance for the public is expected. For now, Australians are advised to familiarise themselves with the new laws to ensure compliance and understand their new rights and responsibilities.
