850k casual workers could become permanent employees

More than 850,000 casual workers could soon have the option to switch to permanent employment and get added perks like annual leave and sick pay. Would you make the switch?

More than 850,000 casual workers could have the option to become permanent employees as the Albanese government cracks down on casualisation in the workforce as part of its industrial relations reform.

Employee Relations Minister Tony Burke will today reveal the details of the next round of workplace reform in a speech at the Sydney Institute — a topic that has been subject to fierce push back from the business community.

Casual workers who have regular work arrangements will have the option to become permanent employees if they wish to gain leave benefits over casual loading.

About 850,000 casual workers will be eligible. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie

The government said they will legislate a “fair, objective definition” to determine when an employee can be classified as casual.

Mr Burke said the permanent employments benefits would not be applied retroactively.

“Many casuals won‘t want a permanent job. If you’re a student or just working a casual job to make some extra money, this change won’t matter to you. But there are casual workers who are trying to support households,” he said.

“They‘re being used as though they’re permanent workers and the employer is double dipping – taking all the advantages of a reliable workforce and not providing any of the job security in return. That loophole needs to be closed.”

Employee relations Minister Tony Burke. Picture: Martin Ollman

Mr Burke said no one will be forced to pursue a particular employment option — the choice would remain with workers.

“No casual will be forced to lose their loading. No casual will be forced to become a permanent employee,” he said.

“But for those who desperately want security – and are being rostered as though they were permanent – for the first time job security will be in sight.”