If your business employs casuals you should be aware of changes coming into effect on the first pay period after 1 October 2018.
Casual conversion is the way unions have limited the use of casual labour. After 1 October 2018 some casual employees will be entitled to request in writing that their casual employment be converted to full time or part time employment. Employers have 21 days to respond to the request and are only entitled to refuse in certain circumstances, after consultation and in writing.
Employers are not obligated to offer a conversion. They are however, required to notify their employees of the right to request a conversion.
The entitlement of casual conversion will apply in all industries however, will vary between different awards.
Employers should familiarise themselves with these changes and notify their casual employees with provisions within the first 12 months of their first engagement. For those currently employed, they must be provided with the clause by 1 January 2019.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.