A: Roster changes can feel unsettling, especially when you’ve built routines around a regular day off. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand your rights and what usually happens in early childhood settings.
Start With Your Contract
Your employment contract is the most important document. It tells you:
- Whether your day off is fixed
- Whether the service has the right to adjust your roster
- Whether there’s a clause allowing changes “to meet the needs of the centre”
If your contract doesn’t specify a particular day off or only lists your total weekly hours, the centre usually has flexibility to move your RDO when staffing needs shift.
When Can A Manager Change Your Day Off?
A director can typically adjust rosters if:
- Enrolments change
- Ratios shift
- One day becomes busier than another
- The centre needs to avoid unnecessary staffing costs
For example, if your usual day off is Friday but Friday becomes a high‑attendance day, the centre may move your RDO to a quieter day like Tuesday.
When Do They Need Your Agreement?
If your contract specifically names your day off and does not include a flexibility clause, the service must ask for your consent before changing it.
In that case, a unilateral change may not be allowed.
Being Permanent Doesn’t Automatically Lock In Your Roster
Permanent full‑time or part‑time status doesn’t guarantee fixed days unless your contract says so.
Roster flexibility is common in ECEC because children’s attendance patterns change throughout the year.
Good Practice Still Matters
Even when a centre can change your day off, many directors choose to:
- Discuss the change with you
- Explain the reason
- Trial the new arrangement
- Revisit it if enrolments shift again
This builds trust and helps everyone feel respected.
What You Can Do Next
- Re-read your contract
- Look for clauses about roster flexibility or operational needs
- Ask your director for clarification if something is unclear
- Seek general advice from Fair Work or your union if needed
Understanding your contract helps you feel confident and informed and makes conversations with leadership much easier.
Further Reading
Breaks, Leave, Overtime and Wage-Related Matters
Time Off Instead Of Payment For Overtime
Childcare Wages In Australia
Unpaid Overtime in Early Childhood Education
Signing An Employment Contract
Sick Notice And Medical Certificate
Time Off Instead Of Payment For Overtime
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