The Non-Compete Ban and the Future of Workforce Mobility

Event Details

The Federal Government’s proposed ban on non-compete clauses looks set to come to fruition, with the release of the Competition and Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Banning Unfair Non-Competes) Bill 2026 ("Bill") earlier this week.

Join APSCo Australia and Gadens for an expert briefing on the proposed legislation, its implementation timeline, and the practical implications for the recruitment and staffing sector.

George Haros (Partner) and Adam Walker (Partner, Competition Law) will examine how the reforms are expected to affect APSCo Members.

This session will cover:

• An overview of the proposed legislation and expected implementation timeframe.

   

• Which recruitment and labour hire employees are likely to be affected by the ban.

   

• The treatment of existing employment contracts and what employers can expect during the transition period.

   

• The proposed prohibition on co-worker solicitation clauses and its implications for team moves and competitor hiring.

   

• The impact on labour hire businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions and employment models.

   

• Alternative mechanisms for protecting business interests, including confidentiality obligations, intellectual property protections, gardening leave arrangements and client ownership provisions.

   

• The practical steps agencies should be taking now to review contracts, policies and workforce strategies ahead of commencement.