This is the twenty-third in a series of fact sheets to assist CSIRO union members better understand and enforce our rights at work.
The source of these rights is contained in the new CSIRO Enterprise Agreement
2011-2014 (attached at right) and relevant legislation.
Which part of the EA covers casual employment?
The key section of the EA which covers casual employment is Clause 15.
How is a casual officer defined and how are they normally employed?
A ‘casual officer’ is a person employed by the hour and paid on an hourly
basis to cover genuine temporary need (Clause 15a). Casuals are normally
employed for a maximum of 662 hours (approximately 18 weeks) in any 12 month
period.
Can a casual officer be employed for more than 662 hours in any 12 month
period?
Yes, in some circumstances, but only after prior consultation with a
representative in the relevant work area (a workplace delegate), or where
officers choose, their union office (Clause 15f).
Do casual officers receive a loading in lieu of paid leave/holidays etc?
Yes. Casual officers are paid for work performed inside the bandwidth at an
hourly rate based on the appropriate CSIRO classification level. In calculating
the hourly rate, a 25% loading is paid to officers, in recognition that casuals
do not have access to certain entitlements, including: paid leave (except long
service leave); paid public holidays; and allowances, unless otherwise provided
for elsewhere in the EA (Clause 15b-d).
What happens when casual officers work outside the bandwidth (overtime)?
In these situations, casual officers are paid their hourly rate (exclusive of
the 25% loading), plus a penalty rate of: 35% for work Monday to Friday; and
100% for work on Saturday, Sunday or a public holiday (Clause 15e).
Can a casual officer be directed to leave work when there is insufficient
work to do?
Yes, however the casual officer will receive payment for all of the
previously agreed hours of work for that day.
Can a casual officer’s employment be terminated at any time?
Yes, however the casual officer will be paid for the previously agreed hours
of work on the day she/he is advised of the termination of employment.
Can casual officers join the Staff Association?
Yes. The Staff Association can provide expert advice and support to casual
officers, at any stage of their employment with CSIRO.
