What Is a Part-Time Employee?
A part-time employee is a worker who is engaged in ongoing employment but works fewer hours than a full-time employee, usually on a regular schedule. In Australia, part-time work is governed by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is a common flexible employment option that suits businesses and workers alike.
While a full-time employee typically works an average of 38 hours per week, a part-time employee works less than 38 hours, and their entitlements—such as leave—are generally offered on a pro-rata basis.
🔗 Fair Work – Part-Time Employees
Key Features of Part-Time Employment
- Ongoing employment: Unlike casual employment, part-time roles are usually permanent or on fixed-term contracts.
- Predictable hours: Work hours are agreed upon and generally set in advance.
- Entitlements: Part-time workers are entitled to the same conditions as full-time staff but in proportion to the hours worked.
- Award or agreement governed: Pay rates, leave accrual, and conditions are set out in modern awards, enterprise agreements, or employment contracts.
Common Examples of Part-Time Roles
- A retail assistant working 20 hours per week on a set schedule
- An office administrator working mornings from Monday to Thursday
- A nurse working 3 rotating shifts per week in a hospital
Entitlements for Part-Time Employees
Under the National Employment Standards (NES), part-time workers are entitled to:
- Annual leave: Typically 4 weeks per year, accrued on a pro-rata basis
- Personal/carer’s leave: 10 days per year, also accrued pro-rata
- Public holidays: Paid if normally scheduled to work that day
- Superannuation contributions: Paid by the employer at the required rate (11.5% in FY24–25)
- Parental leave: Provided if minimum service period requirements are met
- Notice of termination and redundancy pay, where applicable
🔗 Explore: National Employment Standards (NES)
Benefits of Part-Time Employment
For Employees:
- Better work-life balance for caregivers, students, or semi-retirees
- Predictable and steady income
- Access to important entitlements such as paid leave and super
For Employers:
- Flexible scheduling to match demand
- Cost-effective workforce management
- Retain talent who may not be available for full-time roles
How Part-Time Differs from Casual Employment
Feature |
Part-Time Employee |
Casual Employee |
Employment Type |
Ongoing |
Ad-hoc/irregular |
Hours |
Fixed/regular |
Variable/unpredictable |
Leave Entitlements |
Yes (pro-rata) |
No (unless long-term casual) |
Loading |
Standard pay rates |
25% casual loading |
Termination Notice |
Required |
Not typically required |
Employer Responsibilities
Employers must:
- Clearly state hours and expectations in employment contracts
- Provide minimum pay rates and conditions under the relevant award or agreement
- Accurately calculate pro-rata entitlements
- Ensure fair treatment in accordance with the Fair Work Act
- Provide a Fair Work Information Statement at the start of employment
Learn more: Fair Work Information Statement
Part-Time Conversion Rights
Certain long-term casual employees have the right to request conversion to part-time (or full-time) employment if they have worked regular hours over 12 months. This provides more job security and access to paid entitlements.
Learn about Casual Conversion
Managing Part-Time Employees with Microkeeper
Microkeeper provides a seamless way to manage part-time employees with tools for:
- Custom rostering based on availability
- Automated leave accruals and pro-rata calculations
- Award-compliant payroll processing
- Employee Console access to update availability or view payslips
Explore Microkeeper’s Workforce Management Platform
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a part-time employee work full-time hours?
Yes, occasionally, but ongoing full-time hours may require a change in contract.
Is overtime paid for part-time employees?
Overtime is payable if they work more than their agreed hours or exceed full-time hours (as defined by the award).
Do part-time employees accrue long service leave?
Yes, they do, based on their continuous service and hours worked.
Final Thoughts
Part-time employment offers flexibility and access to core entitlements, making it a valuable arrangement for both employers and employees. With the right systems and understanding of Fair Work obligations, managing part-time staff can contribute to a stable, productive, and satisfied workforce.
Disclaimer: This glossary entry is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult Fair Work or a legal professional for tailored guidance.