The only circumstances where members in the public sector can be placed on fixed term contracts are where they are engaged to replace staff who are on leave (such as long service leave, maternity leave or long term sick leave) or where the position is specifically funded as project work.

Any member who has been offered a fixed term contract in other situations should contact the office for advice.

For example, we are currently acting on contractual matters for members who have been appointed to senior positions within their disciplines. Hospitals have claimed that it is government policy that senior managers be placed on fixed term contracts. This is not correct. Such contracts must be ongoing.