Employment Contracts

Your employment contract is a legally binding agreement between you and your employer. 

Not to be confused with independent contracting, you will have an employment contract regardless of whether you’re a full-time, part-time or casual worker.

Employment contracts can never provide conditions that are worse than those in National Employment Standards or the award or agreement that covers your workplace.

Employment contracts can be written or verbal. It is best to get a written copy of your contract if you can. That way you have a record in case you ever need it.

Your employment contract will set out the terms and conditions of your employment and some basic information about your role. This can include things like:

  • The day your employment starts
  • Workplace location
  • Your job title and description
  • An outline of your responsibilities
  • The number of hours you work each week
  • Your rate of pay
  • How much notice you need to give or receive when ending your employment
  • Commitment to workplace policies 

If you need to know more, you can also contact your union or the Australian Unions Support Centre for free, confidential information and advice about any workplace issue.

Do you want some further information about Employment Contracts?


The Australian Unions Support Centre can assist you to find and join your union. We can also provide general information about your rights at work.

All Support Centre enquiries are 100% confidential.

Contact Australian Unions

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The best way to make sure your rights at work are protected is to join a union.

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