Workers

Your rights and obligations as an employee

You are entitled to:

be paid the right wage for the job you do
protection from unfair dismissal
sick leave, annual leave, public holidays, family leave and long service leave
have an unfair contract of employment which is not covered by an industrial award or a contract for services, amended or invalidated
freedom to belong to or not belong to a union

You are expected to:

arrive at work on time
dress suitably for the job (wear safety equipment if required)
work to the best of your ability throughout your work day
respect your employer, colleagues and customers
take care of your employer's property
follow your employer’s 'reasonable and lawful' instructions (that is, instructions that are not illegal, don't threaten your health and safety and you are capable of doing)
obey safety rules
ask for help if you need it
know what the employer expects you to do if you can’t be at work for any reason
not discriminate or harass others in the workplace
not act in a way that puts you – or others – at risk of injury in the workplace

If you fail to meet your obligations as an employee, your employer may counsel you or terminate your employment.

Last updated 2 July 2007