Enterprise Agreement Hours: Understanding the Basics

If you work in an industry covered by an enterprise agreement, you may have heard the term “enterprise agreement hours” thrown around. So, what exactly does it mean?

An enterprise agreement is a legal agreement between an employer and their employees that sets out the terms and conditions of employment. This agreement can cover a range of issues such as pay rates, allowances, working hours, and leave entitlements.

Enterprise agreement hours refer to the maximum number of hours an employee can work per week under the terms of the enterprise agreement. This is an important consideration for both employers and employees, as breaching these hours can result in penalties and legal action.

The exact number of enterprise agreement hours can vary depending on the industry and specific agreement in place. For example, some agreements might set a maximum of 38 hours per week, while others allow for up to 40 hours.

It`s important to note that enterprise agreement hours are not the same as ordinary hours. Ordinary hours refer to the standard hours of work for an industry or occupation, and are set out in awards or legislation. Enterprise agreement hours can be higher or lower than ordinary hours, depending on the terms of the agreement.

Employers must ensure that they comply with the enterprise agreement hours and any other conditions set out in the agreement. This includes providing appropriate breaks and ensuring employees are not required to work more than the agreed number of hours.

Employees also have a responsibility to adhere to the enterprise agreement hours and other conditions. If they work beyond the agreed number of hours, they may not be entitled to overtime pay or penalty rates.

In conclusion, enterprise agreement hours are an important part of any enterprise agreement, and understanding them is essential for both employers and employees. By adhering to these hours, both parties can ensure compliance with the agreement and avoid any legal issues.