There are big workplace relations changes happening for private practice in 2010. Ten National Employment Standards under the Fair Work Act 2009 and modern awards will commence from 1 January 2010. The awards applying to the health industry are as follows:

Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2010 (HPSSA)
Nurses Award 2010
Medical Practitioners Award 2010
Aged Care Award 2010

Previously, the Fair Work Act 2009 and modern awards was only applicable to practices falling under the federal workplace relations system (not employers covered by the state industrial relations system such as sole traders of partnerships) however, on the 19th November 2009 the NSW Government announced that it would transfer its industrial relations powers to the Commonwealth. Legislation surrounding the referral of NSW industrial powers was officially passed on the 2nd December 2009. The passing of this legislation means that all employees and employers in NSW, with the exception of State government departments and local councils, will be covered by the Federal workplace relations system from 1 January 2010. 

Fair Work Act 2009 Resources

Modern Awards and Pay Rates applying to Private Practice