HR in Practice explains the changes to the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2010.

As part of an Award review, a final decision has been made regarding proposed changes to the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2010.

This announcement has been split into two sections: a major change that is applicable from first full pay period commencing on or after 9 July 2019, and minor changes that will be applicable from the first full pay period commencing on or after 9 January 2019.

The major change, which has now been given final approval, is in relation to the span of hours. Specifically, the span of hours for physiotherapy, practices will change to: 7.30 am–9.00 pm Monday to Friday, and 8.00 am–4.30 pm on Saturdays.

Note: this will not come in effect until the first full pay period commencing on or after 9 July 2019.

The below minor changes come in to effect from the first full pay period commencing on or after 9 January 2019:

• a new definition of ‘private medical, dental, pathology, physiotherapy, chiropractic and osteopathic practice’


• minor change to the wording in clause 25 (rostering) to now allow a roster to be changed at any time when an employee is absent on personal/carer’s leave, compassionate leave, ceremonial leave, leave to deal with family and domestic violence, or in an emergency


• minor change to the wording of clause 26.1 (ordinary hours on weekends) to specifically state that part time and full-time employees are entitled to a 50 per cent loading when working ordinary hours between midnight Friday and midnight Sunday. Note: ordinary hours are those included in the span of hours. This clause does not allow all work performed on weekends (including Sundays) to be paid with a 50 per cent loading. Overtime rates will still be applicable at certain times


• a new clause to state that an employee who works not more than six hours can forgo a meal break with the employer’s consent


• changes to clause 29 (shift work) to include a more straight forward shift penalty (40 per cent) for casual employees performing shift work.

Wentworth Advantage operates the HR in Practice workplace relations advisory service for APA Business group members. For more information on the benefits of joining the Business group, email info@australian.physio or call 1300 306 622.