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.   Visit www.hrcartel.com to join the community, access the compliance portal, and stay protected.