In this episode of The HR Podcast - The Expert Sessions, Sarah Ropek is joined by Nic Elliott to answer a question many employers are asking right now: what do I actually need to know about the Employment Rights Act — and when?

Described as the biggest shake-up in employment legislation in years, the Act isn’t one single change but a wide package of reforms landing in phases across 2026 and 2027. Sarah and Nic focus on what’s genuinely imminent, including day-one statutory sick pay and the creation of the Fair Work Agency, as well as what’s coming next — from major restrictions on fire and rehire to the reduction of the unfair dismissal qualifying period to six months. They also explore the practical implications for businesses, the unintended consequences employers should be aware of, and what organisations can do now to prepare, from reviewing terms and conditions to investing in manager capability.