What is the difference between full time, part time, and casual work in Australia?

In Australia, employees are classified as full-time, part-time, or casual. Each classification carries different entitlements and different pay structures. Understanding which one applies to you matters for knowing what you should be paid and what you are entitled to.

Full-time employment

Full-time employees work a regular pattern of hours, typically 38 ordinary hours per week. They receive the full set of leave entitlements under the National Employment Standards, including 4 weeks of annual leave per year and 10 days of personal and carer's leave. They receive the base hourly rate without a casual loading. Full-time employment provides the most job security and the broadest entitlements.

Part-time employment

Part-time employees work fewer than 38 ordinary hours per week on a regular, agreed schedule. They receive the same entitlements as full-time employees on a pro-rata basis, including annual leave, sick leave, and other NES entitlements. Their pay is calculated at the same base rate as full-time employees for the same award, not reduced simply because they work fewer hours.

Casual employment

Casual employees do not have a fixed schedule and are engaged on an as-needed basis. They do not receive annual leave or personal and carer's leave accruals. In exchange, they receive a 25% casual loading on top of the applicable award rate. This loading is the compensation for the lack of leave entitlements and the uncertainty of hours.

Casual work is the most common arrangement for working holiday makers, particularly in hospitality and retail. Make sure you know whether you are classified as casual and that the 25% loading is included in your rate.

Tax is the same regardless

Your working holiday maker tax rate of 15% applies to all income regardless of your employment classification. All income from any of these arrangements must be declared in your tax return.

Need help?

Whatever your work situation, we can sort your tax.

We help working holiday makers handle their tax obligations regardless of how they are employed. Get in touch and we will take care of the details.