Information about Nanny Employment

The following information can help parents with employment arrangements. Find A Babysitter is simply an 'introduction site' to find babysitters and nannies. We are not involved in any employment arrangement and do not make any recommendations. It is the responsibility of the parent and nanny or babysitter to follow through with the details. However, we can provide some points to consider.

Job Description: Describe duties, such as childcare, domestic duties, food preparation.

Pay: State the rate per hour / day / week / base salary. Consider payment method and frequency. Allow for other expenses (outings), allowances (e.g., petrol) or reimbursements. Plan remuneration review after x months. For information about the Australian Pay and Classification Scales go to Fair Work Australia

Term of Employment: Discuss what is expected of the carer for the duration of the employment. Plan probationary period and performance review dates. Agree on the minimum notice period for termination.

Conditions of Employment: Normal hours of work, overtime, leave entitlements (annual leave, public holidays, sick leave).

Superannuation: According to the law, employers are required to pay superannuation if a nanny is working more than 30 hrs/wk in a childcare or domestic capacity. For more detail see the ATO's Superannuation Guarantee website

Income Tax: Generally, under the pay-as-you-go (PAYG) system, employers may need to withhold tax from payments made to employees, and then send these amounts to the ATO. There is a tax free threshold of $18,200. For more information see the ATO website.

Insurances: Explore Public Liability Insurance to cover accidents. Some cover may be under the employer's Home & Contents policies. Otherwise nannies may consider taking out cover with an insurer. Contact www.nannysure.com.au for further information. Consider Automobile Insurance if required.

Domestic Workers Compensation: Under Workers Compensation legislation, employers may be required to insure carers for Domestic Workers Compensation Insurance. Legislation varies from state to state and may be available as an extension to the employer's existing home and contents policy (provided the insurer is licensed to sell it). Employers can contact WorkCover in their state for further information.

The Child Care Subsidy: replaced the Child Care Benefit and the Child Care Rebate in 2018. There are a number of requirements to qualify. The subsidy is paid directly to approved childcare providers. For nannies this would be under In Home Care, which provides access to government subsidised care in the home. The program is designed for families who are unable to access other mainstream childcare. The babysitters and nannies on Find A Babysitter are not part of the In Home Care program. For further information please see Services Australia

To formalise these points, you may consider writing an agreement or contract. There are basic 'employment agreements' available online from a range of providers. Fair Work Australia has a long list of templates that may be helpful Fair Work Australia