An Application has been made to the Fair Work Commission to vary the Enterprise Agreement to remove an ambiguity. The ambiguity relates to the rate of pay for some casual academics from 25 June 2016.

Application of a formula set out in the Agreement gives a different result to the amount expressly set down in the Agreement. 

The Agreement sets out, in Schedule 3, that the rate to be paid to casual academic staff, who hold a doctoral qualification, who are undertaking a tutorial (or equivalent) is calculated as three times the hourly rate (plus casual loading) of Level A, Step 6, which works out as $157.31 from 26 June 2016. However, the table in Schedule 3 states the rate as $162.90.

The variation sought to the Agreement will result in clarifying that the rate to be paid is that intended by the parties to the Agreement when it was negotiated, ie $157.31.

If you have any queries about this matter please contact Industrial Relations Manager, Brendan Cusack, on x7230 or at B.Cusack@murdoch.edu.au.