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Benchmarking HR --- Page: 10 : 18 April 2008
No author supplied for original article

LexisNexis Summary
Human resources (HR) executives in eight countries including Australia have taken part in a survey by Resources Global Professionals. Although 82 per cent of those polled believed "the war for talent" was a problem that could take a decade to resolve, the majority were using short-term strategies to resolve the issue, such as trying to lift productivity without increasing staff numbers. Only six per cent of those surveyed consider work-life balance a priority. Although 98 per cent believed they were part of senior management, 42 per cent were of the view that their influence is less than other members of the executive ranks.

Worrying signs
HR Monthly --- Page: 14-18 : April 2008
Original article by Tracey Evans

LexisNexis Summary
Stressed employees are exacting a growing toll on business. Data from the Australian Safety & Compensation Council shows a 100 per cent jump in the number of stress-related damages claims in the seven years to 2004. The average claim costs $A12,800. Charles Power, of Holding Redlich, notes that costs extend beyond compensation payments, and that stress tends to affect higher-paid workers. The problem contributes to "presenteeism", which Medibank Private estimates to have an economic cost of $A25.7 billion per year. Research by Gallup shows that problems with supervisors are the main cause of stress.

In chartered waters
HR Monthly --- Page: 42-45 : April 2008
No author supplied for original article

LexisNexis Summary
Victoria's Charter of Human Rights & Responsibilities Act took full effect at the start of 2008. The Act is probably a precursor to an Australia-wide charter. Although the charter concentrates on basic human rights in government laws, decisions and policies, it potentially has repercussions for employment law in the private sector. It is therefore in employers' interests to be acquainted with the 20 political and civil rights detailed in the charter. These include the right to life, freedom from forced work, equality before the law, freedom of movement and cultural rights.