ways2work - Parents and carers
Returning to work
Congratulations � you�ve been offered the job! All that hard work and preparation paid off.
Alternatively, you may be returning to work from parental leave.
Be clear about what�s being offered
When you�re first offered a job, enjoy the moment, but take a breath before you accept and confirm exactly what your job involves, your conditions, as well as your employer�s expectations.
If you haven't already got one, ask for a written position description. Some workplaces may not have written position descriptions and instead your pay and conditions may be included in a letter of offer. Even if it is a very casual, small role, it is still worth trying to get something in writing to make sure both you and your employer understand what's expected of you and to minimise disputes along the way.
Starting the conversation gives you advice on how to talk with your employer about your conditions and negotiate any flexible work pratices you need to balance work and family. Terms and conditions of employment outlines workplace laws that govern these types of negotiations. You may also like to read Family Responsibilities - Guidelines for Employers and Employees, produced by Industrial Relations Victoria and the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.
The financial impact
Ask the employer what your pre-tax and take-home pay is likely to be and what expectations they might have about you working additional hours and payment for these.
Then check with Centrelink about the impact your job might have on any income support you currently receive. Once you have gathered this information use the ways2work Calculator to see your financial position more clearly.
Tell Us Your Story.
We'd like to hear from you about your experiences of balancing work and family.