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APAC Edition
22nd May 2025
 
THE HOT STORY
Australia's public sector gender pay gaps revealed
Recent data from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency has highlighted gender pay gaps in Australia's public sector, revealing that they are lower than those in the private sector. Notably, 49% of public sector employers still exhibit a pay gap favouring men, despite men only taking 11% of primary carer's leave. The report indicates that half of Commonwealth public sector employers have a median total remuneration gender pay gap of less than 4.8%, compared to 8.9% in the private sector. Mary Wooldridge, agency chief executive, said: "Pleasingly we have also seen large rises in the number of employers conducting a gender pay gap analysis." While progress is evident, Wooldridge emphasised the need for continued efforts to enhance gender equality, particularly in encouraging men to take primary carer's leave.
LEGAL
Gig workers allege exploitation by Zepto
The Rajdhani App Workers' Union (RAWU) has filed a complaint with the Delhi labour department against Zepto and its vendor, Kilton Geo Engineering Pvt. Ltd, alleging that gig workers were misled regarding wages, accommodation, and working conditions. Sunand, president of RAWU, said: “When they reached Delhi, they were crammed 10-12 in a single room in hostels.” The labour department is investigating the claims, which arise amid a temporary shortage of delivery personnel in the quick commerce sector. Zepto clarified that it provides technology and guidelines, asserting that “this appears to be a localised issue.” However, concerns about the treatment of workers persist, with experts noting that the lack of written contracts leaves them vulnerable. Ajay Kumar from Triumvir Law highlighted that the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970 protects contract workers, indicating that platforms cannot completely evade responsibility.
Qantas faces hefty penalty for sacking
Qantas has admitted to unlawfully sacking over 1,800 ground workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, describing the decision as a “mistake” rather than intentional. The airline is currently facing a Federal Court hearing to determine an additional penalty, with compensation already set at A$120m for affected staff. Barrister Justin Gleeson SC said that the airline "has learnt its lesson,” emphasising that it is a first offender. The Transport Workers Union has called for the maximum penalty, highlighting the airline's potential for significant profit during the pandemic. The court's decision on the penalty is expected soon, with Qantas seeking a mid-range penalty of $40m-$80m.
Bangladeshi migrant workers demand back wages
Around 280 Bangladeshi migrant workers in Malaysia are demanding over 3m ringgit in back wages after their employer, Kawaguchi Manufacturing, closed down. The workers, who had not been paid for up to eight months, have filed complaints in both Malaysia and Bangladesh. Asif Nazrul, an adviser to Bangladesh's expatriate welfare ministry, met with Malaysia's Home Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong to address the issue. The situation has become a diplomatic concern, with many workers trapped in debt due to high recruitment fees. “If this goes on, we'll die here,” said worker Parvez Azam, highlighting the dire conditions faced by many. Despite some companies like Panasonic and Sony agreeing to cover part of the recruitment costs, the workers continue to seek further assistance and justice for their plight.
WORKFORCE
Reforms spark outrage in NSW
NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey's proposed reforms to the workers compensation scheme have ignited significant backlash from unions, academics, and medical experts. Critics label the changes as "cruel" and "morally bankrupt," arguing they will hinder vulnerable workers' access to support during a mental health crisis. Mookhey aims to introduce the legislation to Parliament by May 27, warning that failure to pass it could jeopardise funding for public sector workers. One contentious proposal is to raise the Whole Person Impairment threshold from 15% to 31%, which Unions NSW secretary Mark Morey claims would disqualify 95% of workers with permanent psychological injuries. The reforms have been described as a "reactionary step" that could reverse progress in mental health destigmatisation, with critics asserting that the government is prioritising financial stability over worker welfare.
Conglomerates shun younger workers
Korea's largest conglomerates, including Samsung, SK, Hyundai, and LG, are increasingly hiring fewer younger workers, as older employees are reluctant to leave their jobs. Despite reporting significant growth in assets and net profits—up 15% to 1,444.7 tn won and 30.8% respectively—the companies have only slightly increased their workforce from 745,691 to 746,486 employees. An official noted: “It becomes increasingly difficult for companies to lay off employees due to labour laws and regulations here.” The rise of artificial intelligence is also impacting hiring practices, as firms seek to reduce labour costs. Experts suggest that government deregulation is necessary to encourage hiring, with Kim Dae-jong from Sejong University stating that Korea's high corporate taxes drive companies to invest abroad.
Nippon Life ends secondment agreements
Nippon Life Insurance has decided to discontinue secondment agreements that allowed its employees to work temporarily with banks and financial institutions. The decision follows criticism that such practices have led to misconduct and reduced competition. Currently, 51 employees are on secondment, and Nippon Life plans to negotiate their reassignment or removal from these roles. The General Insurance Association of Japan (GIAJ) has established guidelines to prevent issues arising from secondments, emphasising compliance with the Act on the Protection of Personal Information. The GIAJ also introduced a guideline to prohibit new cross-shareholdings among its members, aiming to enhance market transparency and shareholder returns.
Asha workers demand fair treatment
In Haldwani, hundreds of Asha and midday meal workers have protested for permanent employment, fair wages, and improved working conditions. The demonstration, led by the Uttarakhand ASHA Health Workers Union, was part of a statewide resistance. Protesters submitted an eight-point demand charter to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, calling for the implementation of a 2021 proposal for regularisation and a monthly honorarium of Rs 11,500. Dr. Kailash Pandey, the union's general secretary, highlighted the precarious conditions faced by Asha workers, stating: "During the COVID-19 pandemic, they risked their lives at the frontlines." The rally concluded with a warning of a potential nationwide strike on July 9 if demands remain unmet.
Maternity leave made clearer for women
The Odisha government has introduced comprehensive guidelines to clarify maternity leave for women employees, addressing previous confusion among departments. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the proposal, allowing female government employees with fewer than two living children to take 180 days of maternity leave, starting three months before the expected delivery date and extending to six months post-childbirth. Leave can be taken continuously or in phases. Women joining government service after childbirth can still avail themselves of the benefit until their child is six months old, albeit with a reduced duration.
REMOTE & HYBRID WORKING
Kolkata's co-working spaces heat up
Kolkata's co-working spaces and work-friendly cafes are experiencing a surge this summer, influenced by the city's evolving work culture and the influx of freelancers and hybrid workers. Rising temperatures and frequent power cuts are prompting remote workers to seek out air-conditioned environments that offer more than just coffee. Arshdeep Singh, partner at Artsy, said: “Artsy is designed to be inviting for both solo workers and meeting-goers.” The new wave of co-working cafes focuses on creating a conducive environment, with features like high-speed internet and comfortable seating. Natasha Suri, co-founder of CoLAB, notes: “Traditional work boundaries have blurred,” highlighting the demand for inspiring spaces. As a result, these hybrid spaces cater to various work styles, making them increasingly popular during the hot summer months.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Airline staff face new threats
The Indian government is taking steps to enhance the safety of frontline airline staff and improve passenger rights. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu has established a panel to review the civil aviation requirements (CARs) of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This initiative aims to address two major passenger grievances: ticket refunds and facilities during flight disruptions. The panel will also explore measures to protect ground staff from unruly passengers, including the possibility of extending no-fly lists to airport behaviour. "Ground staff must be adequately protected from the angry passengers in case of flight disruptions," the panel noted. With the rise of financially stable airlines like Tata's Air India and IndiGo, the focus on consumer rights is becoming increasingly significant.
Workers demand better aviation standards
Union-affiliated workers recently protested at Brisbane Airport, demanding “decent standards” in aviation. The Transport Workers Union (TWU) highlighted “crisis conditions” resulting from over a decade of cost-cutting and outsourcing by airlines. TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine said: “Poor pay and conditions are driving skilled workers out of the industry and impacting on safety.” A survey of 300 workers revealed alarming statistics: 39% had been injured on the job, 73% felt pressured to work unsafely, and 60% reported outdated equipment. The union is calling for significant action to prioritise worker safety and fair pay, stating: “This must end.” Brisbane Airport officials reiterated their commitment to safety, emphasising collaboration and transparency.
Safety crackdown: 13 firms fined
In Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) issued 13 stop-work orders and fines exceeding $375,000 to firms violating safety regulations for workers at heights. Inspections from February to April revealed over 1,330 safety violations, despite fewer inspections than the previous year. MOM highlighted the importance of vigilance in safety practices, especially as falls from height have historically been a leading cause of workplace fatalities. In 2024, falls from height ranked fifth among causes of workplace deaths, with four fatalities recorded. MOM stated, “to keep our workplaces safe, and ensure that workers and businesses can thrive,” enforcement will continue.
HIRING
Job fair buzzes with opportunity
The Job Fair for International Students at Coex in Gangnam District attracted around 2,500 attendees and 100 South Korean companies seeking to hire foreign nationals. Participants had the chance for on-site interviews and résumé-building sessions. Angel Trachta, a student, remarked, "I think it's a great opportunity for us to practice applying for jobs." Companies like Amorepacific and Hankook Tire & Technology were actively recruiting, with Hankook noting a high volume of résumés submitted. The event also featured valuable sessions on résumé writing and job market insights, with Kim Jin-young, CEO of Kowork, advising applicants to craft compelling self-introductions.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
PwC launches AI hub in Singapore
PwC has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Singapore, committing over $4m over three years, with support from the Singapore Economic Development Board. The hub aims to establish AI standards, develop local capabilities, and foster strategic partnerships. A key component is the establishment of an AI factory to scale solutions across various sectors, including financial services and logistics. Collaborations with institutions like the National University of Singapore will provide students with practical AI skills. Since its inception in January, the team has expanded from three to 15 employees, with plans to grow to 20 within 12 to 15 months.
INTERNATIONAL
Trump layoff threats spur mass exodus of federal workers
Tens of thousands of US government workers are resigning rather than endure the stress of potential layoffs under the Trump administration. According to Don Moynihan, a professor at the Ford School of Public Policy: "It's inappropriate to think of these as voluntary resignations. Many of these employees feel that they were forced out." The administration's efforts, including buyouts and threats of firings, have led to a significant reduction in the federal workforce, with nearly 12% of the 2.3m employees leaving. The White House has not provided an official count of departures, but reports indicate that over 75,000 accepted buyout offers. The situation has created a climate of fear among remaining employees, with many citing increased stress and uncertainty about their jobs. Legal challenges to the administration's actions are ongoing, but the potential for mass layoffs remains.
 


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