Changes to the Fair Work Act on Fixed Term Contracts

Under the new legislation in the Fair Work Act, from December 6th, 2023 if you have been on a fixed term contract for substantially the same work for 2 years, the ABC cannot offer you another fixed-term contract when it expires and should instead convert your employment to permanent.While there are still a few exceptions to this, such as parental leave cover, those exceptions are much more limited than they were in the past.If you have been on fixed-term or run of show contracts for 2 years or more, and you’d like to be converted to permanent employment, reach out to your manager and request a conversion.You can use this template email to help you.

If your manager/P&C either rejects your request or does not reply within 21 days, get in contact with MEAA Member Central or your local organiser, and we can discuss your options.If management attempt to end or renew a fixed term contract as your approach 2 years or after you’ve been on fixed terms contracts for 2 years, without converting you to permanent, call us immediately!

We're fighting for sustainable jobs at the ABC

Over the last 3 years, MEAA membership at the ABC has doubled. We're working together to build a strong voice for staff, and the sustainable jobs that the ABC needs to function as the public deserves. To make sure we can win change, we need our union to be stronger and represent all editorial staff at the ABC.
To do that, our MEAA delegates need to be diverse, supported and empowered.

The ABC MEAA House Committee has developed a proposed structure for representation at the ABC, and we want member input and involvement, to make it work. Take a look at the proposal and tell us what you think!

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Contact

Got any questions or concerns? Speak to your local MEAA delegate or your local organiser:#DontDiscountABC