The National Retailers Association and the Master Grocers Association applied to Fair Work Australia to vary the Modern Retail Award to introduce a two-hour minimum for casual employees, with the NRA also seeking changes to allow employers to give high school age students one-and-a-half hour shifts between 3.30pm and 6pm.

The SDA vigorously fought this application because our members continually tell us they want more meaningful work rather than less. Most members have to travel to work via the car, public transport or by family or friends. This involves a substantial cost, effort and time and should never be undervalued by retailers.

DECISION

• FWA refused to vary the retail modern award to cut casuals’ minimum shift lengths from three to two hours.
• Amongst other comments, FWA’s Vice President Watson said the full bench’s decision to adopt the three-hour minimum in the modern award reflected the majority or “critical mass” of the pre-existing minimum hours arrangements.
• “For example, a general reduction in the minimum engagement period could mean that many casual employees are engaged for shorter periods and consequently receive less pay for each engagement even though the travel costs of attending work are unchanged,” he said.

After the rejection of the applications and the retention of the 3 hours minimum, Chris Ketter said, “this result is a big win for the Union and the members. This shows the real value of union membership”.