Definitions

Understanding different types of flexible working

Flexible work arrangements can be informal (negotiated and agreed on an ad hoc basis with the direct supervisor to meet specific individual needs) and formal arrangements as per the University’s Flexible Work Arrangements Procedure.

Flexible work arrangements include:

a. Flexibility in the scheduling of hours worked, such as alternative work schedules

b. Flexibility in the number of hours worked, such as part-time work and job shares; and

c. Flexibility in the place of work, such as working from home or off campus

  • Flexibility in work scheduling
    • Non-standard start and finish times: Start and finish times vary within regular contracted hours of duty. Hours are based on the employee’s needs and approved by a supervisor.
    • Compressed working week: Working fulltime hours in less than the traditional 5-day workweek by increasing daily hours worked.
    • Purchased leave: The University has several leave options for you to consider, please contact HR Assist for more detail.
  • Flexibility in the number of hours worked
    • Part-time hours: A reduction in number of hours worked per week or fortnight. This requires a balance between a staff member’s personal requirements, role requirements and impact on requestee’s team.
    • Transition period part-time: Staff member gradually returning to work after a major life event (e.g., birth or an adoption of a child) by working part-time for a set period of time and eventually returning to full-time work.
    • Job share: No more than two staff members sharing the duties of one full-time position with each staff member working part-time. Each job share partner will have the same position title and position description. This arrangement is appropriate when the responsibilities are distinct and easily separated.
    • Transition to Retirement: The University have several retirement options for you to consider, please refer to the retirement procedure or contact your local HR representative for more detail.
  • Flexibility in the place of work
    • Working from home: Work one or some of your working pattern from home. Working from home arrangements requires consideration of health and safety requirements.
    • Alternate work location: Work at another University of Melbourne building or campus alternate to your official place of work.

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