Key changes
Changes to the Award include:
- Minimum engagement requirement for part time and casual employees from 25 October 2019;
- Level 4 classification to include personal care workers who do not hold a relevant Certificate III qualification from 25 October 2019; and
- Casual weekend and public holiday pay rates increase from 1 July 2020.
Overview of key changes
Minimum engagement requirement for part time and casual employees
From the first full pay period on or after 25 October 2019, part time and casual employees must receive a minimum payment of two hours for each portion of a shift pursuant to clause 22.8 (f) of the Award.
Level 4 Classification
Previously, employees who were characterised as a Level 4 classification pursuant to the Award, required a Certificate III qualification. However, from the first full pay period on or after 25 October 2019, Level 4 employees are no longer required to hold a Certificate III but may instead possess equivalent knowledge and skills to qualify for the minimum hourly rate commensurate with a Level 4 classification.
Casual weekend and public holiday pay rates
Currently, casual employees receive:
- 150% loading on ordinary hours worked between midnight Friday and midnight Saturday;
- 175% loading on ordinary hours worked between midnight Saturday and midnight Sunday; and
- 250% loading on ordinary hours worked on a public holiday.
From 1 July 2020, casual employees will be entitled to a 25% increase as follows:
- 175% loading on ordinary hours worked between midnight Friday and midnight Saturday;
- 200% loading on ordinary hours worked between midnight Saturday and midnight Sunday; and
- 275% loading on ordinary hours worked on a public holiday.
Our recommendation
We recommend that aged care employers complete an overview of any employees who are currently employed under the Award and whether any necessary changes may need to be implemented to ensure continued compliance with the Award.
To review the Fair Work Commission’s Determination and Decision with respect to the above changes including a copy of the updated Award, please click here, here and here.
Please contact our employment and workplace relations team at Panetta McGrath Lawyers on (08) 9321 0522 should you require any advice on the abovementioned changes to the Award and how it may impact on your business.
