"The Government is expecting a great deal of interest in the requirements of the new legislation from both employers and employees," Mr McGinty said.
"Understandably, some employers might be concerned that their inquiries might reveal they are not complying with the new labour relations laws.
"They need to know that they will not be subject to prosecution for honest mistakes made during the transition period while the new laws come into effect."
The Labour Relations Reform Act, which completed its passage through Parliament at the end of June, includes reforms in the areas of unfair dismissal, right of entry, inspection of records, award making, minimum conditions of employment, and changes that introduce good faith bargaining.
"Workplace agreements are being abolished and there will be a range of employment options for employers and employees to consider," Mr McGinty said.
"Small business employers, in particular, can seek information about the effect of the new labour laws on their business operations either from the Department of Consumer and Employment Protection (DOCEP) or the Small Business Development Corporation, (SBDC), both of which have trained officers to help.
"Small businesses can engage an education officer from DOCEP in an open and frank discussion about working arrangements they have adopted.
"They can do this without fear that there will be compliance repercussions because of disclosure of information."
However, Mr McGinty said, this discretionary approach to the prosecution of breaches did not extend to complaint matters investigated by the department, which were unrelated to the transitional arrangements for the new legislation.
"Information about the changes will be readily available as there is a need for detailed explanations about how the new laws will affect people," he said.
Anybody with inquiries should ring the Labour Relations Wageline on 1300 655 266. People can also ring the SBDC on 08 9220 0222 or 1800 199 125 for country callers. Detailed information is also available at http://www.docep.wa.gov.au
