Fair Work Assembly Convenes Over 100 Delegates in Birmingham

First-ever event focused on employment rights, labour market risks, and shaping the Fair Work Agency's future priorities.

Diverse delegates collaborating at the Fair Work Assembly in Birmingham.
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Diverse delegates collaborating at the Fair Work Assembly in Birmingham.

Over 100 delegates convened in Birmingham earlier this week for the inaugural Fair Work Assembly, a day dedicated to discussing employment rights, emerging labour market risks, and shaping the future priorities of the Fair Work Agency (FWA).

The event brought together a diverse range of representatives from trade unions, employers, civil society organisations, and academia. Attendees engaged in discussions and collaborative sessions with key figures including FWA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Pinney OBE, Chair of the Advisory Board Matthew Taylor CBE, and members of the Advisory Board.
The Assembly served as a platform for delegates to share information and contribute to vital conversations about the evolving labour market. Through panel discussions and interactive sessions, participants offered their perspectives on the primary challenges, risks, and priorities currently facing both workers and employers.
Key topics explored included the employment rights agenda, emerging labour market issues, insights from individuals with lived experience of labour abuse or exploitation, and examples of best practices aimed at supporting compliance and fostering positive outcomes within the labour market.
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"It was fantastic to see so many people from different sectors come together to discuss the issues that matter most as we build the Fair Work Agency. One of the strongest messages from the day was the willingness of people to work collaboratively. Tackling non-compliance and exploitation cannot be achieved by any one organisation acting alone. By working alongside businesses, academics, trade unions and voluntary organisations, we can help create a fairer labour market that protects both workers and responsible employers. We are building the Fair Work Agency as part of a wider ecosystem, and strong partnerships will be essential to our success. I would like to thank all our delegates, panel speakers and Advisory Board members for their valuable contributions and insights, which will help shape our approach in the years ahead."

Matthew Taylor CBE · Chair of the Fair Work Agency Advisory Board
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"Building strong partnerships is fundamental to creating a fair labour market. While enforcement is an important part of our role, we also want to be recognised as an organisation that supports businesses to do the right thing and helps improve compliance across the labour market. Listening to delegates today and hearing their views on the challenges and opportunities facing workers and employers has been invaluable. We are grateful to everyone who took the time to contribute and share their experiences. This Assembly marks the beginning of a conversation. We look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders as we build an innovative organisation that delivers positive outcomes for both workers and employers."

Lisa Pinney OBE · Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Work Agency
Based on information from the official source: Fair Work Agency (09/10/2026)