Employment Conditions
A number of flexible work arrangements and appealing employment conditions that support the individual needs of employees are available. While on the Graduate Program, some of these work arrangements will not be available however can be accessed following completing the program.
Part-time Employment
Part-time employees are able to reduce hours on a regular on-going basis subject to negotiation. Employees working part-time will have similar job content and status as full-time staff, and are encouraged to participate in training, career and professional development programs.
Flexible Hours
The department’s work times ensures we meet customer service requirements. It generally allows employees to choose their start and finish times to fit within the core work time, where the position and operational requirements can accommodate. This flexibility to choose start and finish times helps to suit family and lifestyle commitments. Other flexible arrangements include accruing or ‘banking’ of hours of up to five days a year which can be taken as leave, if extra work hours are required.
Home-based Work
Home-based work may be considered under flexible work arrangements however this is subject to meeting a range of conditions.
Flexible Arrangements for Taking Leave
Flexibility in leave arrangements allows employees to take individual days or even half days of annual leave.
Purchased Leave / Self-Funded Leave
In a purchased leave arrangement, employees work their normal hours at reduced pay which enables extra paid leave during the year.
The department also offers a four/five year’s scheme. Employees receive 80 per cent of their normal income for four years while at work however it is paid over a five year period. This enables the employee to take the fifth year off as paid leave at the reduced income level.
Carer’s Leave
All full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid carer’s leave if required. Employees can use any part of their personal leave entitlement each year as paid carer’s leave, to care for a member of their family or household who needs help or support because of an illness, injury or an unexpected emergency.
Parental Leave
The department provides up to 52 weeks parental leave to employees for the birth or adoption of a child. After 12 months continuous service, employees are entitled to paid parental leave in accordance with the Public Sector and Government Officers General Agreement terms and conditions.
