3a Maintenance

What is the maintenance phase of the employment cycle?

A set of activities that focus on retaining and managing employees’ careers.

What are features of the maintenance stage?

Employment contract review, Employment agreement review, Performance management (feedback/communication tool).

Why is maintenance important?

To develop employees, retain top staff, establish career pathways, ensure job satisfaction, and reduce turnover.

How is maintenance carried out?

By establishing communication channels, setting clear expectations, and aligning career objectives with organisational goals.

Define an employment agreement.

A type of contract that sets out the minimum standards of employment for a group of employees or an industry.

What are the types/features of employment agreements?

Casual vs Permanent, Enterprise Agreements, Modern Awards, Cannot be below National Employment Standards (NES).

Why are employment agreements important?

Governed by the Fair Work Act, allow casuals working 12+ months to request permanent work, regularly reviewed, ensure tasks/responsibilities match contract and pay rates.

How are employment agreements managed?

Individually through performance management, collectively via union negotiations for enterprise agreements.

Define an employment contract.

The legally binding terms and conditions associated with an individual employee.

What are features of an employment contract?

Elements: Consideration, Intent, Agreement; Legal considerations: Capacity, Conduct, Legal Terms; Cannot provide less than NES, Modern Award, or Enterprise Agreement.

Why are employment contracts important?

They reflect employee responsibilities and pay, which change as experience or duties increase.

How are employment contracts updated?

Amended and re-signed when responsibilities/pay change, Casual to permanent conversion possible, usually reviewed during performance management.

Define performance management.

A formal discussion to assess progress towards goals or performance standards.

What are features of performance management?

Formal discussion, Feedback, Annual or biannual, Goal setting, Contract/job description review.

Why is performance management important?

Improves performance, retention, communication, productivity, cost efficiency; saves time, reduces conflict for managers; clarifies expectations and enhances career pathways for employees.