Question 1

What does a factory hand do in Australia?

Accepted Answer

A factory hand performs various general duties across the factory floor as directed, including material handling, cleaning, machine feeding, sorting and supporting production workers. They move raw materials and finished products, maintain cleanliness of work areas, load and unload machines, and assist with production processes. Under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 (MA000010), factory hands are typically classified at entry-level classifications C13-C14.

Question 2

What award covers factory hands in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Factory hands are typically covered by the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 (MA000010). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in manufacturing industries. Always verify which award applies to your specific manufacturing business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a factory hand?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, factory hands typically fall under Level C13 or C14 classifications. Level C14 applies to entry-level employees performing routine duties under direct supervision. Level C13 applies to employees with some experience performing a range of tasks with minimal supervision. See our Manufacturing Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a factory hand job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Manufacturing Award 2020 for current rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do factory hands need in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Factory hands typically do not require formal qualifications, making this an accessible entry-level position. However, basic literacy and numeracy skills are essential for following instructions and completing documentation. Previous factory or warehouse experience is preferred but not always required. A forklift licence may be preferred or offered as training on the job.

Question 6

Do factory hands need a forklift licence?

Accepted Answer

A forklift licence is not always required for factory hand positions, as many roles do not involve operating forklifts. However, having a forklift licence is often preferred and can improve employment prospects. Many manufacturers provide opportunities for factory hands to obtain their forklift licence through on-the-job training programs.

Question 7

What physical requirements apply to factory hands?

Accepted Answer

Factory hand positions require good physical fitness as the work involves manual handling, lifting moderate weights (typically 15-20kg), standing for extended periods, and repetitive movements. Candidates must be able to work safely in factory environments with noise, dust and varying temperatures. Pre-employment medicals may be required.

Question 8

Do factory hands need safety training?

Accepted Answer

Yes, workplace health and safety training is mandatory for all factory employees. Factory hands must complete site-specific induction training covering emergency procedures, PPE requirements, hazard identification and safe work practices. Additional training may be required for specific equipment or processes. All training is typically provided by the employer.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent factory hands?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your production needs and demand patterns. Permanent staff provide consistency and can be trained in multiple areas, while casuals offer flexibility for peak periods and seasonal demand. Many manufacturers use a core permanent team supplemented by casuals. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to factory hands?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Manufacturing Award 2020 apply for afternoon shifts, night shifts, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Rates vary depending on the shift time and day. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for factory hands?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, minimum engagement periods apply - typically 2 hours for casual employees and 4 hours for part-time employees. However, actual shift lengths vary depending on production schedules, with many factory hands working 8-12 hour shifts. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a factory hand employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, shift patterns and hours, overtime requirements, reporting structure, main duties, work location, safety requirements, and PPE obligations. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to factory hands?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance for part-time employees. Changes within this period require employee agreement. For casual employees, reasonable notice should be provided. Using rostering software helps ensure compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts.

Question 14

How do I roster factory hands for shift work?

Accepted Answer

Manufacturing facilities often operate multiple shifts across 24 hours. When rostering factory hands for shift work, consider handover times between shifts, production requirements, employee preferences and fatigue management. Ensure adequate coverage for breaks and allow for equipment maintenance downtime. Use rostering software to manage shift patterns efficiently.

Question 15

What breaks are factory hands entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, employees are entitled to breaks based on their shift length. Typically this includes paid rest breaks (10-20 minutes depending on shift length) and an unpaid meal break of at least 30 minutes for shifts over 5 hours. Break times must be scheduled to maintain production flow and safety.

Question 16

Can factory hands refuse overtime?

Accepted Answer

Under the Manufacturing Award 2020, employers can request reasonable additional hours, but factory hands can refuse if the request is unreasonable. Factors include the employee's personal circumstances, notice given, health and safety considerations, and workplace arrangements. Clear communication about overtime expectations should be established during employment.

Factory hand job description