This year, new laws have come into effect which give casual workers more power to convert to permanent employment.
The new process for becoming a permanent employee is called the “Employee Choice Pathway”.
If you’re covered by an Enterprise Agreement that contains a casual conversion clause this will continue to apply during the life of the Agreement as well as the Employee Choice Pathway.
To be eligible to become a permanent employee, you need to:
- Have been employed for 6 months or more at your current workplace; and
- No longer meet the definition of a ‘casual worker’.
- A worker is considered casual if there is no firm advance commitment to continuing indefinite work.
These laws were fought for and won by unions to give you more opportunity to become permanent and have more stability and security in your hours and pay.
The benefits of permanent work
The SDA and the union movement worked with the Federal Government to secure these rights for casual workers, clearly define casual work and create more secure jobs.
Permanent work gives you greater security at work and in life.
Part-time works general have a set roster and a guaranteed number of hours per week which is agreed upon by you and your employer.
You’ll have a firm commitment in advance from your employer to ongoing, patterned work and any changes or reduction in your hours can’t occur without consultation.
I think I’m eligible, how do I apply?
To start the process of becoming a permanent employee, you need to provide a written notice to your employer letting them know you want to become permanent.
Once you’ve submitted your request, your employer must respond in writing within 21 days and they must consult with you before responding.
The SDA is here to help all casual workers apply and ensure that your employer takes this request seriously. If you need more information about casual conversion or would like assistance, please contact the SDA on 07 3833 9500.