5 Key Reasons Why Employers Must Have Written Employee Contracts

Having a written employment contract is an essential part of any employer-employee relationship. Employers must ensure that all their employees have a signed and legally binding agreement in order to protect both parties from potential disputes, misunderstandings, or conflicts. Here are five key reasons why employers must provide each employee with a written employment contract.

1) It ensures both parties understand the terms and conditions of the job - A written employment contract sets out the specific rights and obligations of each party, including details such as wages, working hours, vacation time, sick leave policies and other benefits that may be provided by the employer. Having these details clearly laid out in writing helps to avoid confusion or misunderstanding between employer and employee regarding expectations on either side.

2) It provides legal protection for both parties - If an issue arises between an employer and employee that cannot be resolved through internal means such as mediation or arbitration then it can be taken to court where a judge will look at evidence presented by both sides before making a ruling. Having an up-to-date employment contract which has been properly drafted helps to strengthen the case of either party if they end up in court proceedings over some sort of dispute related to their work.

3) It helps to prevent discrimination and harassment - Employers must follow the law when it comes to preventing discrimination and workplace harassment, and having a written employment contract ensures that any such behaviour is clearly identified as unacceptable and can be challenged if necessary.

4) It makes sure employees get the benefits they are legally entitled to - Employers must provide certain benefits to their employees, such as minimum wages or other matters as provided for in the National Employment Standards, and having a written agreement helps to ensure that the employee is getting what they are entitled to.  

5) It protects employers from potential liability - Having a written employment contract with each of your staff members helps protect you from any legal issues that may arise from their work, as you will have a record of the terms and conditions they agreed to.

It is clear, then, that written employment contracts are an essential part of any employer-employee relationship. Employers must make sure that each employee has a signed and legally binding agreement with the company in order to protect both parties from potential disputes, misunderstandings and other issues that may arise in the workplace. Employers should also make sure their contracts are up to date with current legislation in order to ensure they are providing employees with the legal rights and benefits that they are entitled to.

Would you like to know more about strong employment contracts? Please call James Burke or Adam Stencel on (08) 8941 6355 or email james@bowden-mccormack.com.au or adam@bowden-mccormack.com.au.