Our permanent and fixed-term employment agreement templates have been updated in line with case law and our recommended best practices.
The changes have already been rolled out to our online agreement builder in the Employers Toolbox, so if you use this you need to do nothing.
However, if you use your own templates you need may need to update these in order to remain compliant or aligned with our recommended changes. We are happy to do this for our members. Simply reach out with your customer ID number and we'll be in touch accordingly.
There are likely to be further changes this year as the Government is promising to expedite the new Employment Relations Amendment Bill 2025 to be enacted this year in which case significant changes will follow.
The changes to our templates include;
Abandonment of Employment
The addition of a clause to confirm that in the case of abandonment of employment termination is with immediate effect, there will be no notice period given or paid.
Employee Obligations
An employee is required to disclose any prescription drug which may adversely affect their safety or performance at work
Parental leave fixed term reason.
A templated example for a fixed-term agreement for parental leave cover and caveats for an early return to work by the incumbent.
Employee Deductions
The employer specifically agrees to consult prior to effecting a deduction. Clause and deductions schedule wording change
Sick leave
The employee agrees to notify the employer at the earliest possible time prior to a shift
Suspension
The employee must remain contactable and available while on suspension during normal shift hours
Drugs and Alcohol
Clause modification around reason-cause testing at work.
Restraint of Trade
Clause modification to preclude the invalidation of a business sale for vulnerable staff.