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50 HOURS - THE WORKING WEAK
30 per cent of Australian companies have increased overtime levels, a survey by specialist recruiter Hays found. Of these companies, 38 per cent said the weekly increase was 5 hours or less per week, 35 per cent said it was between 5 to 10 hours and 8 per cent said it was more than 10 hours per week.
At month end, 17 per cent of companies said they increase overtime by 5 hours or more. Of the companies surveyed, just 5 per cent said they had decreased overtime levels.
For non-award staff, overtime or extra hours worked were paid in 25% of cases.
“With business activity high, a strong economy, but a shortage of skills, it’s no surprise the rest of us are working longer to cover increasing workloads combined with a shortage of staff,” said Darren Buchanan, Director of Hays.
“Five hours or less overtime, whether per week, at month-end or at year-end, is generally considered a reasonable level of overtime to meet occasional fluctuating workloads. However when overtime becomes excessive, or is not recognised or rewarded, it can lead to lower productivity, lower morale, fatigue-related mistakes and accidents, higher turnover and increased absenteeism. In short, we’re making our employees weak.
“When recognised or rewarded, used effectively and in moderation, overtime can help increase employee satisfaction as it gives employees an option to either supplement their income, or take time in lieu, and the company can increase or decrease overtime to meet workload demands, so it can be a positive tool for both employers and employees,” Darren said.
Over 1,700 companies nationally participated in this survey. This information was collected as part of the annual Hays Salary Survey. The full results are available on www.hays.com.au/salary
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