Extra rights for casual workers as government announces jobs shake-up

There are currently around two million casual workers across Australia, but a new government shake-up could soon see many of those transitioning into full- and part-time work.

All casual employees who have worked for at least one year are set to be given new rights allowing them to request to move to full-time or part-time employment.

The move follows a similar recent decision by the Fair Work Commission, which provided eligible award-reliant casual employees – those whose wages are set according to the industrial award for that industry – with a right to request to convert to full-time or part-time employment.

Minister for Jobs and Industrial Relations Kelly O’Dwyer announced the change on Tuesday, which will extend those rights to all eligible casual employees under the Fair Work Act 2009. It is expected that the Coalition will then aim to push the legislation through parliament before the next federal election takes place in May 2019.

“If award reliant employees have the right to make a request and it is subject to reasonable safeguards for employers, it is only fair that the same right is extended to other casuals who currently do not have the same right,” O’Dwyer said.

“The Government’s approach will ensure a consistent, fair and balanced safety net for all employees covered by the national workplace system. Fairness and balance means having regard to the interests of employers and employees.”

Read more: Baby boomers filling casual job vacancies that students don’t want.

The Fair Work Commission made its decision after considering the evidence provided by unions and employer representatives in extensive proceedings over a period of four years – however the outcome currently only applies to employees who have their terms and conditions set by a relevant modern award, affecting around 1.5 million workers.

The Coalition now plans to introduce new laws which will extend that outcome to another 500,000 casual workers, across industries such as mining, retail and hospitality.

“Many in the community are concerned about security of employment. But if regulation is too onerous, it is likely that employers will be less willing to create jobs. This issue requires a careful and balanced approach,” O’Dwyer said.

Employers will only be able to refuse requests made by employees on reasonable grounds, after a consultation with the staff member, in line with the Fair Work Commission decision.

Have you ever worked casual hours? Do you think this change is a good idea?