What is a part-time employee?
A part-time employee is an ongoing employee who works fewer than full-time hours on a regular basis, with pro-rata leave and entitlements.
A part-time employee is a permanent (ongoing) employee who works fewer than 38 ordinary hours per week, usually on a regular and predictable pattern of days and hours agreed with the employer. They have the same job security as full-time staff but for fewer hours.
Part-time employees receive all the same National Employment Standards entitlements as full-time employees, but on a pro-rata basis — including paid annual leave, paid personal/carer's leave, and notice of termination. Their agreed hours are usually set out in writing under the relevant award or agreement.
Key facts
- •An ongoing employee working fewer than 38 ordinary hours per week, on a regular pattern
- •Receives all National Employment Standards entitlements on a pro-rata basis
- •Accrues paid annual leave and personal/carer's leave according to hours worked
- •Hours are usually agreed in writing under the award or enterprise agreement
- •Has the same protection from unfair dismissal as full-time staff once past the minimum employment period
Try the calculator
Leave Entitlements CalculatorFrequently asked questions
How much annual leave does a part-time employee get?
Part-time employees accrue 4 weeks of paid annual leave per year on a pro-rata basis, calculated on their ordinary hours. For example, someone working half of full-time hours accrues leave at half the full-time rate.
Can my employer change my part-time hours?
Your regular hours are usually agreed in your contract or set under your award. An employer generally cannot change them unilaterally without agreement or following the consultation requirements in the award or enterprise agreement.
FairWork Mate is an independent commercial service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Fair Work Commission, or any Australian Government agency. Content is general information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.