The law doesn't require this; however, doing so allows you to clarify any misunderstandings before either of you commits to the contract. It will also make it easier to resolve disputes if they arise. Always put everything in writing but remember that what you say can be relied on by the employee in the future.

The relationship the Practice has with the individual makes an employee different from an independent contractor. With an independent contractor, for example, the Practice specifies less about when, where and how they work. You need to cover leave, overtime, and superannuation if someone is operating as an employee. Sham contracting is something the Fair Work Commission has a low tolerance for, so you must be clear about what the legal relationship actually is.

Most industries have a modern award or enterprise agreement, which sets out the minimum employment standards for specific jobs in that industry however, that does not mean that an employment agreement is not required.

Wrong. An employment contract is not like a job description or an employee handbook, which can be easily modified if the organisation's needs change. An employment contract binds both the employee and the employer to its terms. If you want to change the terms, they must be renegotiated.