Part-time job quality in a 'best case scenario' work environment

This study explores the notion of part-time versus full-time work against six job quality components identified in recent literature. A series of 40 interviews were conducted with employees in a public sector agency in Australia; a study context where part-time work is ostensibly ‘good quality’, being typically long-term, voluntary, secure, and having predictable hours. Despite strong industrial protections, the findings revealed some serious concerns for part-time job quality. These concerns included reduced responsibilities and lesser access to high status roles and projects; a lack of access to promotion opportunities; increased work intensity; and poor workplace support. To foster equity, greater attention needs to focus on monitoring and enhancing job quality, regardless of hours worked.