Not sure what the difference between casual, part-time and full-time work? Part-time work provides employees with security and consistency, along with a range of other advantages! This Business Kitz blog will cover all the basics of what part-time work entails and what your rights are as a part-time employee. If you are seeking stable employment with leave benefits, but cannot manage a full-time work load, a part-time job might be just what you’re looking for!
What is part-time work?
Part-time contracts are often in place for employees that work consistent hours that total less than 38 hours each week. Therefore, they are usually engaged on a permanent or fixed-term basis and paid regularly for the duration of their employment. As a result, if an employer cancels a part-time employee’s shift, they will still be compensated appropriately. Part-time employees are entitled to the similar entitlements as full-time employees such as sick leave and yearly leave, but these leave days are just afforded in a smaller quantities.
How many hours does a part-time employee work?
According to the Fair Work Ombudsman, part-time work is defined as an employee who works less than 38 hours a week. The average part-time employee in Australia works 17 hours per week, but this can change significantly depending on the employer, company and industry. Some industries have set minimum work hours for part-time employees.
Can a part-time worker be dismissed?
If a part-time employee is dismissed, they are entitled to be provided with a written notice of termination. The amount of notice an employee must be provided with is contingent on how long they have been with the company. The below table provided by Fair Work Australia outlines the amount of notice required.
| Period of continuous service | Minimum notice period |
|---|---|
| 1 year or less | 1 week |
| More than 1 year – 3 years | 2 weeks |
| More than 3 years – 5 years | 3 weeks |
| More than 5 years | 4 weeks |
What is the difference between part-time and full-time?
Full-time and part-time have essentially the same rights, but part-time employees have a reduced fraction of leave entitlements. Part-time leave entitlements are on either a pro-rata basis or are determined by how many hours the employee works each week.
How to find a part-time job
- Part-time jobs are common in the retail business, especially during busy seasons like Christmas.
- Hospitality also often employee people on a part-time contract, including occupations such as bartenders and baristas.
- Many small and medium-sized accounting firms hire part-time accountants rather than full-time accountants to manage their finances.
The best option to find part-time jobs is by internet job boards such as Seek or Indeed, where employers publish open opportunities daily.
Legal advice
If you are an employer that is struggling with putting together a part-time contract, Business Kitz has an extensive range of solicitor-drafted employment, commercial and legal templates available via the subscription service. If you are an employee that is unsure of your rights or need legal assistance in reviewing or drafting your employment contracts, you can contact our sister company, Legal Kitz. They offer FREE 30-minute consultations to assist you with any queries or concerns. Book here now for your free consultation.