Fixed-term agreements & probation periods
Fixed-term employees
Employers can offer fixed-term employment if:
- there are genuine reasons - like seasonal work, project work, or where the employee is filling in for a permanent employee on leave
- the employer tells the employee the reasons, how or when the employment will end, and the employee agrees to this in their employment agreement.
Like other employment agreements, fixed-term agreements must be in writing.
More information on fixed-term employees
Probation periods
An employer also has the option to an initial probationary period. If the first part of the employment relationship is a probation period this must be recorded in writing in the employment agreement including its duration.
A probation period allows the new employee to demonstrate their skills . Such arrangements may be permissible where the duration and tasks are limited and designed to give the employer a fair opportunity to assess the skills.
Employers may not use such an arrangement to get work done without having to pay for it. A probation period does not limit the legal rights and obligations of the employer or the employee, and both parties must deal with each other in good faith.
- This information is provided by Department of Labour
Fixed-term employees- This information is provided by Department of Labour
Probation period
