The average Australian engages in a wide variety of working arrangements over the course of their lives. If you’re making the shift from casual to permanent, there are some key things you’re going to want to think about.

Having questions is a good thing. It means that you’re engaging in the process thoughtfully. In this article we wanted to step through some of the things you should consider while navigating a change in employment arrangement from casual to permanent.

Casual, permanent – what does it all mean?

Casual and permanent refer to two main types of employment arrangement. There are countless subtypes, but we’re talking generally enough to cover the basics of each. The specifics of each type will depend on your line of work and the state or territory you’re in. However, generally speaking, casual work doesn’t feature the guarantees that you can expect under permanent arrangements.

Important to note here, if you’ve been approached about taking on a permanent working arrangement, you aren’t legally obligated to accept that offer. For many, the freedom of not having to commit to specified hours or notice periods is something that outweighs the assurance of ongoing work and entitlements.

What do I have to look out for?

If you’ve been working under a casual working arrangement and are looking to replace that with a permanent contract, you’ll no doubt be excited about the prospect of greater stability and entitlements. The assurance of greater legal protections and the freedom to plan ahead are aspects of permanent working arrangements that make them highly desirable to many workers.

The differences between casual and permanent working arrangements go both ways though. While making the shift to working under a permanent contract may give you certain assurances, you are also expected to maintain your own set of obligations for the life of that contract.

This means providing notice for leave or employment termination, maintaining a steady work schedule with specified hours, and perhaps having to think about the tax implications of a permanent contract. Above all, it is essential that you have both read and understood the terms of your contract before making a decision.

Any big things to tick off?

Once you’ve thought carefully about the sorts of commitments you’re prepared to make, you should then have a more detailed conversation with your employer. What can you expect day to day? Is the shift from casual to permanent work part of some larger plan?

Your employer may have been contractually obligated to offer a permanent working arrangement, or they might be simply seeking to sure up a firmer working relationship.

These conversations should take place before making any decisions. The content of these conversations is going to be an important aspect of how you establish exactly what you’re committing to.

Learn more with Zoom Recruitment

You’re already doing well for having begun the research process. If you’re looking to learn more about employment, professional development, recruitment and training, you can look to us here at Zoom Recruitment.

With decades of experience in recruitment and training across mining, industrial, civil and rail, we know the employment landscape well. Get in contact with us today to learn more.