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3c. Rapid Fire - HR

Tracks
Stream 3
Saturday, May 23, 2026
13:15 - 14:00

Details

Rapid Fire 1:Fair Work, Fair Play: Navigating Workplace Law Compliance Confidently This session focuses on the business side of being a doctor — breaking down common Fair Work and workplace law compliance pitfalls in areas like contracts, award interpretation, pay audits, performance management, and termination. Presenter: Vanessa James McPhee Rapid Fire 2: The Rise and Rise of Workplace Claims This session unpacks the trends behind the surge in claims and explores what’s really driving them — from evolving employee expectations to the growing intersection between HR, safety, and Fair Work law. We’ll break down the common triggers seen in medical practices, share insights from recent cases, and outline practical tips for preventing issues before they escalate. Presenter: Vanessa James McPhee Rapid Fire 3: Beyond Recruitment: Inspiring Retention Through Connection, Purpose and Growth In a rapidly evolving primary care environment, recruiting and retaining skilled, motivated staff requires more than financial incentives—it calls for meaning, connection, and purpose. This presentation explores innovative, people-centred initiatives that have strengthened workforce engagement and retention at Willetton Family Practice and beyond. Presenter:Thurka Sitparan


Speaker

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Mrs Vanessa James-mcphee
Principal Workplace Consultant
Hr In Health

Fair Work, Fair Play: Navigating Workplace Law Compliance Confidently

13:15 - 13:30

Biography

Vanessa James-McPhee is the Principal Workplace Advisor at HR in Health. With a strong background in HR and employment law spanning more than two decades, Vanessa is well-versed in the unique challenges faced by businesses of all sizes in the Australasian region. At HR in Health, she provides expert guidance to Owners & Managers on navigating Australia’s complex workplace relations framework and laws and is dedicated to helping practices become and/or remain compliant while addressing day-to-day HR matters. Vanessa’s practical approach ensures HR in Health Members & clients receive tailored and practical advice - whether it's interpreting the Fair Work Act, understanding modern awards, reviewing and drafting employment contracts and policies. Vanessa's business acumen allow her to quickly assess risks and opportunities, offering strategic and practical solutions, which in turn, lighten your load.
Agenda Item Image
Mrs Vanessa James-mcphee
Principal Workplace Consultant
Hr In Health

The Rise and Rise of Workplace Claims

13:30 - 13:45

Biography

Vanessa James-McPhee is the Principal Workplace Advisor at HR in Health. With a strong background in HR and employment law spanning more than two decades, Vanessa is well-versed in the unique challenges faced by businesses of all sizes in the Australasian region. At HR in Health, she provides expert guidance to Owners & Managers on navigating Australia’s complex workplace relations framework and laws and is dedicated to helping practices become and/or remain compliant while addressing day-to-day HR matters. Vanessa’s practical approach ensures HR in Health Members & clients receive tailored and practical advice - whether it's interpreting the Fair Work Act, understanding modern awards, reviewing and drafting employment contracts and policies. Vanessa's business acumen allow her to quickly assess risks and opportunities, offering strategic and practical solutions, which in turn, lighten your load.
Agenda Item Image
Ms Thurka Sitparan
Practice Manager/Owner
Willetton Family Practice

Beyond Recruitment: Inspiring Retention Through Connection, Purpose and Growth

13:45 - 14:00

Biography

Thurka Sitparan is an MBA-qualified Practice Manager (CPM) and incoming Fellow of the Australian Association of Practice Management (AAPM). She leads multiple general practices with a strong focus on governance, accreditation readiness, quality improvement and workforce sustainability. As an Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited (AGPAL) Co-Surveyor, she has accredited Urgent Care Centres and GP clinics, bringing deep insight into standards, compliance and continuous improvement. Thurka is a member of the Carers Advisory Council, the Australian Multicultural Health Collaborative Governance Committee, and serves as a consumer representative on the Western Australian Refugee Health Advisory Council, advocating for equitable, community-responsive primary care. She is also an active volunteer at the Sathya Sai Global Council, preparing meals for homeless and organising initiatives that strengthen connection and belonging. She champions retention beyond recruitment — cultivating purpose-driven teams, strong culture and sustainable general practice through connection, growth and shared values.
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