Before you start work you need to know the conditions you will be working and exactly what you will be expected to do in the role. Your employer should give you this information in a letter of offer.

The letter should include:

• the employer’s name
• what the job involves and a list of your duties
• how much you’ll be paid each hour, week or fortnight
• your hours of work
• whether you’re a casual, full-time or part-time worker
• your employment conditions
• the employment arrangements you will be working under (award or agreement)
• whether you’re covered by the state or federal industrial relations system.

What if I don’t receive a letter of offer?

Some employers will not give you this information in writing. A verbal agreement is also a legal contract.

One of the best things you can do is to note down everything the employer has told you about the job and your working conditions. Put this information in writing (in a letter or email), stating that this is what you understand your employment conditions to be. Then send or deliver the letter or email to your employer.

Even though you have written it yourself, this can be used as evidence if there is any future dispute about your pay or conditions.

It is also a good idea to keep your own records in a work diary, particularly for the first few months in a new job, and to include the days and hours worked and how much you are paid.

You can then compare this with what is on your pay slip each time you are paid.