Steps you can take
Hiring an employee in Australia involves several steps to ensure you comply with labour laws and regulations. Here's a general guide on how to hire an employee in Australia.
Job analysis & description
Define the job role, responsibilities, and qualifications required. Create a detailed job description and person specification.
Legal obligations
Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws, including Fair Work Act 2009, and relevant industry awards or enterprise agreements. Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN) if you don't already have one.
Recruitment & advertising
Advertise the job vacancy through various channels, such as job boards, your company's website, and social media. Consider using a recruitment agency or a job posting platform to reach a broader audience.
Application & selection
Receive and review applications. Shortlist candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and fit with the job requirements. Conduct interviews and assessments to evaluate candidates.
Employment contract
Create an employment contract that outlines terms and conditions, including salary, working hours, leave entitlements, and other benefits. Ensure the contract is in compliance with employment laws.
Background checks
Verify the candidate's references and qualifications. Conduct police checks and, if relevant, working with children checks, depending on the nature of the role.
Onboarding
Provide the employee with a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement. Set up payroll and tax arrangements. Ensure the employee completes required forms, including the Tax File Number Declaration and Superannuation Choice Form. Orient the new employee to company policies, workplace health and safety, and any required training.
Payroll & taxes
Register for Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding and pay employee taxes to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Make superannuation contributions for the employee.
Provide fair work information
Ensure employees have access to the Fair Work Information Statement, which outlines their rights and entitlements.
Probation period
Many employment contracts include a probationary period during which the employee's performance is evaluated.
Ongoing compliance
Stay updated on changes to employment laws and regulations. Provide fair treatment, adhere to anti-discrimination laws, and address workplace health and safety concerns.
Record keeping
Maintain accurate records of employee information, timesheets, pay records, and leave entitlements.
Termination
If necessary, follow proper procedures for termination, which may include notice periods and severance pay.
Work visas
If you are hiring an international candidate, ensure they have the appropriate work visa to work in Australia.
It's important to consult with legal or HR professionals to ensure you're following all legal requirements when hiring an employee in Australia, as labour laws can be complex and subject to change. Additionally, consider seeking advice from local authorities or Fair Work Australia for the latest guidelines.
Want to recruit top talent?
Now that you better understand the cost of hiring an employee in Australia, you may be interested in learning more about 11 Recruitment's permanent recruitment services.
11 Recruitment is the leading perm and temp recruitment agency for white-collar staff. We source high achievers for jobs in Perth and throughout Australia.
At 11, we typically get involved in the recruitment process when a client is either seeking a high achiever to elevate their business, recruiting for a role that is hard to fill, or having difficulty sourcing or attracting suitable candidates.
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