Question:

have been working for a company for almost 3 years and have a signed contract stating working hours, pay etc. They(management/owner) want to increase our working hours and add an amendment to our contracts stating this. My question is this: by law can they force me to agree with this without increasing my wages? It’s a 38% increase in hours so surely I can demand a 38% increase in wages or refuse the new terms and they can’t dismiss me because I signed a contract agreeing to the ‘old’ working hours? What does the law say? If you could include reference to which labour act so I can look it up I’d appreciate it.

Answer:

No company may unilaterally change the terms and conditions of employment. There has to be consultation with staff and you need to provide signed and accepted agreement to any changes.

No person can force you to accept or “fire” you if you do not. I suggest chatting to your manager of your concerns and advise him/her that you will require compensation in accordance with increased hours. Equally you may only work the prescribed hours by law and again no one can force you to work outside these prescriptions.

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