In this raw and unfiltered episode, we take a hard look at the current landscape for Australian employers. From record-high insolvencies in hospitality and construction to the mounting pressures of wage rises and legislation changes, the real cost of doing business in 2025 is becoming clearer, and more dangerous.

We break down alarming statements from Fair Work Commission leadership, unpack the ideology dominating Australia’s IR system, and explain how it impacts your ability to run, grow, or even retain staff in your business. You’ll hear why so many small business owners are worried, and why they’re right to be.

We also share proven retention strategies you can implement right now to secure your workforce through this turbulent period. If you're a business owner, leader, or HR decision-maker, this is an essential listen.

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In this episode of the HR Cartel, host Tim Dive dives deep into the reality facing Australian business owners post-election. With a government that shows no signs of lifting the cost burden on small and medium-sized employers, Tim breaks down the pressing challenges and what business leaders must now do to survive.

From skyrocketing wage costs and new criminal liabilities under wage theft laws, to the real-world implications of workplace performance management, this episode is a must-listen for every employer, manager, and HR lead trying to navigate the current IR landscape.

If you've found yourself wondering whether performance management systems are worth the investment—or questioning how much further you can cut without collapsing your workforce—this conversation is for you.

📌 Topics include:

• Why cost-cutting in business is misunderstood

• What “performance management” should actually look like in SMEs

• How political ideology is shaping IR outcomes

• What you need to do now to avoid non-compliance and survive the next wave of reform

This is one of the most frank conversations we’ve had yet.

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In this explosive episode of The HR Cartel Podcast, Tim Dive dives deep into a high-stakes restraint of trade case where an ex-employee tried to take $120M worth of tender intel to a direct competitor, and the courts actually stepped in.

📌 Interim restraint orders were granted—three months after the employee had already jumped ship, proving that restraint clauses can work… when they’re written properly.

But just as courts begin backing employers, the current government is moving to wipe out restraint clauses for 90% of Australian workers.

So what now?

Tim unpacks:

• The case details and why this win matters for employers

• The IR changes coming if Labor retains power

• The contract clauses you must update NOW before laws change

• How to shield your business before the protections disappear

If you have sales, BD, or leadership staff—and your business relies on client relationships—you need to hear this.

🎧 Listen now. Protect what’s yours.

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