Part-time employee

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

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.}