Non-compete reforms

Unlocking opportunity for Australian workers

Too many Australian workers are being held back by non-compete clauses.

Non-compete clauses are rules in employment contracts that stop people from taking better, higher-paying jobs. These clauses don’t just hurt workers, they slow down innovation, productivity, and growth across our economy.

The Albanese Government is taking the next step to change that. We’re consulting with workers, businesses and the broader community on reforms that will ban unfair non-compete clauses and boost competition in Australia’s job market.

By removing these barriers, we can help millions of Australians earn more, move freely between jobs, and strengthen our economy. Research shows banning non-competes could lift wages by up to $2,500 a year for a worker on median income and boost GDP by around $5 billion annually.

These reforms are part of our broader National Competition Policy agenda, including new measures to prevent wage-fixing between companies and modernise trade licensing across Australia. Together, they form a key part of the Government’s plan to make the economy fairer, more dynamic, and more productive.

Learn more about the reforms

Find out more about our previous consultations to help shape these reforms and previous announcements. 

Previous consultations

Previous announcements and editorials on reforms


Cnr Gungahlin Pl and Efkarpidis Street, Gungahlin ACT 2912 | 02 6247 4396 | [email protected] | Authorised by A. Leigh MP, Australian Labor Party (ACT Branch), Canberra.