Nanny Employment Information
The following information can help nannies, babysitters and parents with employment arrangements. Find a Babysitter is simply an 'introduction site', where you can post babysitting jobs and parents can be introduced to carers. 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 / Remuneration: 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.
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.
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
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.
