How Makere secured a 30 hour contract
Casual retail worker Makere was in need of the stability and consistent hours of a permanent contract.
Unfortunately, when she asked her manager for a permanent contract, she was only offered 12 hours per week.
Makere knew she was already working many more hours as a casual, and needed at least 25 hours to manage as a single parent.
After speaking to her Organiser, Bek, The SDA was able to demonstrate to her manager that she had worked an average of 29.34 hours per week over the last 6 months.
Employers must offer casual workers permanent employment after 12 months service if they:
- Have worked regular pattern of hours for at least the last 6 months on an ongoing basis
- Could continue to work your hours as a permanent employee without significant changes
Even when presented with this information, the store manager declined to offer a better contact than 12 hours per week.
SDA Organiser Bek then escalated the issue to the area manager, who finally accepted that Makere was entitled to be offered a permanent contract based on her average hours over the last 6 months.
Almost immediately after, Makere was delighted to inform Bek that she had been offered a 30 hour contract, and in the department she preferred.
Makere: “Thanks to the SDA and my Organiser, Bek – I’ve now secured a permanent 30 hour contract after the company repeatedly denied me the hours I needed. I’m incredibly thankful for the support. I finally have stability and consistent hours.”
If you are having any issues changing from casual to permanent, the SDA can help.
SDA members have access to our experts who can help you understand your rights when it comes to your employment.
Our Organisers can help you with the following:
- Consider if you are eligible to convert from casual to permanent
- Talk through what changing from casual to permanent may mean for you
- Assist with any requests to your employer
- Information about relevant workplace legislation and your rights
- Information about your specific entitlements in your Agreement or Award
- Answer with any questions you may have