Permanent staff

What Are Permanent Staff?

Permanent staff are employees who are engaged in ongoing employment, either on a full-time or part-time basis, with no predetermined end date. Unlike casual employees or contractors, permanent employees benefit from greater job security, regular work schedules, and a full suite of employment entitlements under Australian workplace laws.

In Australia, permanent employment is governed by the Fair Work Act 2009 and supported by the National Employment Standards (NES), as well as relevant modern awards or enterprise agreements.

Types of Permanent Employment

Permanent staff fall into two main categories:

• Full-Time Permanent Employees
  Typically work 38 hours per week (or the hours set out in the relevant award/enterprise agreement). They receive full leave entitlements, job security, and consistent income.
• Part-Time Permanent Employees
  Work fewer than 38 hours per week on a regular schedule. They receive the same entitlements as full-time employees, but on a pro-rata basis.

Key Entitlements for Permanent Staff

Permanent staff are entitled to a range of statutory benefits that support their wellbeing and financial stability. These include:

• Paid Leave
  • Annual Leave: Minimum of 4 weeks per year
  • Personal/Carer’s Leave: 10 days per year
  • Compassionate Leave: 2 days per occasion
  • Family and Domestic Violence Leave
  • Long Service Leave (after extended continuous service)
• Public Holidays
  Permanent employees are usually entitled to a paid day off on public holidays.
• Superannuation Contributions
  Employers must make contributions into a complying fund at the current Superannuation Guarantee rate (11.5% for FY24–25).
• Notice of Termination and Redundancy Pay
  Required periods of notice and severance pay based on the employee’s length of service.
• Job Security
  Permanent roles continue unless terminated with notice or by mutual agreement.
• Fair Treatment Protections
  Protected from unfair dismissal (after a minimum qualifying period), unlawful termination, and discrimination under the Fair Work Act.

Advantages of Permanent Employment

For Employees:

• Job Security: Knowing their position is ongoing reduces stress and fosters long-term planning.
• Financial Stability: Regular income allows for easier budgeting and financial commitments.
• Leave Entitlements: Paid leave supports work-life balance and personal wellbeing.
• Professional Growth: Many employers invest more in training and development for permanent staff.

For Employers:

• Loyalty and Retention: Permanent staff are more likely to stay long-term, reducing turnover costs.
• Team Consistency: Stable teams lead to higher productivity and deeper knowledge retention.
• Cultural Alignment: Long-term employees help shape and uphold company values and standards.

Permanent vs Casual Employment

Employer Responsibilities

Employers hiring permanent staff in Australia must ensure compliance with the Fair Work Act, modern awards, and other applicable legislation. This includes:

• Providing a Fair Work Information Statement at the start of employment
• Paying correct wages in line with the applicable award or enterprise agreement
• Issuing accurate payslips within one working day of payment
• Keeping detailed employment records for at least seven years
• Offering fair conditions and maintaining a safe workplace

Microkeeper and Permanent Staff Management

Microkeeper simplifies the management of permanent employees through its all-in-one HR, payroll, and workforce management platform. Key features include:

• Award Interpretation: Ensures compliance with Fair Work requirements, including overtime and penalty rates.
• Automated Payroll: Accurately calculates pay, leave, and entitlements.
• Roster Management: Align work hours with availability and contracts.
• Leave Tracking: View balances, approve requests, and forecast leave liability.
• Employee Self-Service: Allows staff to view payslips, rosters, and update personal information.

Discover Microkeeper's HR and Payroll Tools

FAQs About Permanent Staff

Can a permanent employee be fired without notice?

‍Generally, no. Employers must follow proper dismissal procedures, including notice periods unless there’s serious misconduct.

Can I change from casual to permanent employment?

‍Yes. Under casual conversion rights, eligible casual employees can request to convert to permanent after 6 or 12 months of regular employment, depending on the award.

Are permanent employees eligible for long service leave?

‍Yes, if they have been with the same employer for a long enough period (varies by state, usually 7–10 years).

Final Thoughts

Permanent staff form the foundation of a stable and productive workforce. With secure hours, paid entitlements, and legal protections, this employment type benefits both employers and employees. Businesses that manage permanent staff effectively—with clear contracts, fair treatment, and reliable systems—are more likely to foster loyalty, satisfaction, and long-term success.

_{Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or industrial relations advice. For official guidance, please consult the Fair Work Ombudsman or a qualified workplace relations advisor.}