I am employed as a casual RN at a private facility and have worked every Thursday and Friday morning shift for the past 12 months. Am I able to request to become a permanent employee?

As you have worked a regular pattern you may request to become a permanent employee if you’ve been employed for at least 6 months (or 12 months if you work for a small business). This is referred to as casual conversion.

You should put this request in writing and make it clear you are asking to change to permanent employment. Your employer must respond in writing within 21 days of receiving your letter. They must also consult with you about what your new employment status will be, your new hours of work and when the change will take effect.

Your permanent employment status applies from the first full pay period after the employer’s response, unless you and your employer agree to another day.

If your employer does not accept the change, they will need to tell you the reasons why within 21 days of your letter. An employer can only refuse the request if they do not believe you have been working a regular pattern, or on reasonable business grounds or if it would be unlawful. Their reasoning must be explained to you.

If there is an Enterprise Agreement that covers your workplace, you can check to see if there are further provisions for casual conversion in the agreement.

Please contact NSWNMA if you need assistance with making a request for permanency.