What HR policies does a small business actually need?
Most policies are optional. A handful protect you. Here is the short list and why each one earns its place.
October 29, 2026
Most policies are optional. A handful protect you. Here is the short list and why each one earns its place.
After 6 months (12 for small business) a casual can ask. You have 21 days to answer in writing, and only certain reasons count.
Jigsaw HR on the Sunshine Coast is now an Employment Hero Certified Partner. Here is what it means for Australian small businesses with 5 to 50 staff.
Wages, annual leave with loading, long service leave if it applies, plus notice or redundancy where owed. Not sick leave.
No. The minimum employment period only affects unfair dismissal. Other protections apply from day one.
One to four weeks depending on service, plus an extra week for some over-45s. Here is the table and the exceptions.
Probation is a contract term, not a law. For casuals, what actually protects you is the minimum employment period.
By Allaina Smith, Founder and Managing Director, Jigsaw HR. Last updated 24 September 2026. Jigsaw HR is a registered Employment Hero implementation partner. That means
From 1 July 2026, Australian employers must pay superannuation at the same time as wages. Here is what Payday Super means for your business and what to do now.
Eligible employees in Australia have the right to request flexible working arrangements. Employers must respond within 21 days and can only refuse on reasonable business grounds. Here is how to handle requests properly.