Q: We are currently in the process of relocating and extending the operation hours of one of our sites where 13 part-time employees work. Under the enterprise agreement, any change to part-time hours can only be made by mutual agreement. The business will be significantly inhibited if we cannot come to a mutual agreement to change hours. Is there any other lawful option available to us to change these part-time hours?

A: No, you are not able to change an employee’s hours without their consent. But you could require employees to work additional hours to cover the extended operating hours, provided that this is reasonable. As you have an enterprise agreement in place, this will likely require you to pay employees for the additional hours worked.

Please note: The answer is correct at the time of publishing. Be aware that laws may change over time. Refer to Enterprise agreements for current advice.