Unpacking the key employment law developments, emerging workplace risks and practical priorities HR leaders need to prepare for over the next 12 months

Kate Walawski, Partner, Dentons

A candid discussion on the most significant employment law developments, enforcement trends, and organisational risks shaping 2026.

• Hear the latest Fair Work and legislative updates
• Understand where organisations are getting caught out
• Gain practical guidance on reducing legal exposure

Moderator: Kate Walawski, Partner, Dentons

Peter O'Keefe, Deputy President, Fair Work Commission

Medicinal cannabis presents complex safety and discrimination challenges, particularly in safety critical industries. This session explores how employers can balance workplace safety with employee rights, manage testing frameworks, and respond to accommodation requests while reducing legal exposure.

• Balance safety obligations with employee rights
• Understand testing and accommodation challenges
• Reduce legal and compliance risk

Moderator: Kate Walawski, Partner, Dentons

Dr Robert McCartney, Occupational and Environmental Physician, Resile

Breakout A: Managing AI-driven employee complaints

Brisbane: Shannon Chapman, Partner, Lander & Rogers

Melbourne: Emma Purdue, Partner, Lander & Rogers

Sydney: Wendy Fauvel, Partner, Lander & Rogers

Breakout B: Getting the Employment Contract Right

Sydney: Alana Rafters, Senior Associate, Australian Business Lawyers & Advisors

Melbourne: Rebecca Spiliopoulos, Associate, Australian Business Lawyers & Advisors