Check the conditions before your first day.
A practical route through Australian employment information.
Read the offer with the job description
- Confirm who employs you, the workplace, start date, employment basis and ordinary hours.
- Ask which award or enterprise agreement applies and where to read it.
- Check the pay basis, probation arrangements, leave information and any documents you must provide.
Use the official sources for different questions
The National Employment Standards describe national minimum conditions. Awards and registered agreements can add detail. A contract should be read with the rules applying to the job.
If something does not match
Keep your own record of hours and compare your first payslip with the offer. Use Fair Work’s problem-solving steps when a condition or payment needs clarification.
Sources and further reading
Independently researched · reviewed 2026-10-21. Follow the official source for current requirements and individual advice.