Fair Work Agency

The new Fair Work Agency (FWA), which launched on 7 April 2026, brings together enforcement of key employment rights into one place. For most employers who already comply with the law, this means better access to guidance and support.

Key changes

• The Fair Work Agency consolidates enforcement of rights including National Minimum Wage, agency worker protections, and gangmaster licencing.
• Over time, the Fair Work Agency will take on enforcement of additional rights such as holiday pay.
• The agency has powers to investigate breaches, issues civil penalties and take action against labour exploitation.
• A statutory advisory board with business, trade union and independent representation guides the agency.

What this means for employers

Establishing the Fair Work Agency has not created new legal obligations. However:

• Inspections and enforcement may operate differently.
• Where you go for advice and support has changed. As of 7 April, you can submit general enquiries to contact@fairworkagency.gov.uk
• Employers who already follow good practice should not be affected.

Actions to take

• Familiarise yourself with the Fair Work Agency's enforcement policy statement.
• Review your compliance with existing employment rights (for example, National Minimum Wage, holiday pay, agency worker regulations).
• Review your record keeping policies and make sure you are keeping appropriate records to show that you are meeting your legal obligations as an employer.
• Understand how to contact the agency if you need guidance.

Where these changes apply

The Fair Work Agency’s remit combines the functions of the previous state enforcement bodies, covering:

• the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wages across the whole of the United Kingdom
• the gangmaster’s licensing scheme across the whole of the United Kingdom
• serious labour exploitation and modern slavery related offences in England and Wales only. Modern Slavery offences are devolved in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Fair Work Agency works closely with the police, local authorities and other relevant enforcement bodies to tackle serious labour exploitation in Scotland and Northern Ireland
• the regulation of employment agencies and employment businesses in England, Wales and Scotland. In line with the existing devolution settlement, regulation of employment agencies and employment businesses in Northern Ireland continues to be carried out by the Employment Agency Inspectorate (EAI) within the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy
• enforcement of agricultural wages in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland remains the responsibility of devolved governments

More information

For more information see Fair Work Agency factsheet.opens assets.publishing.service.gov.uk in a new tab

For new and updated FWA content please visit the FWA organisation page.opens www.gov.uk in a new tab