This is general guidance, not legal advice. Probation periods have no set length in law. What matters is the unfair dismissal minimum employment period under the Fair Work Act 2009: 6 months, or 12 months at a small business with fewer than 15 employees. Figures are current as at 25 June 2026. Confirm your position at fairwork.gov.au.
Enter a start date and probation length to see the key dates.