Are part-time employees sidelined in workplace participation? This research explores the gendered implications of part-time work on employee involvement in Australian workplaces. Addressing a gap in the literature, this paper investigates how the growth of part-time employment affects access to participatory management practices, especially for women. Given the increasing prevalence of non-standard employment, understanding its impact on workplace equity is crucial. Analyzing data from the Australian Workplace Industrial Relations Survey of 1995, the study tests the hypothesis that part-time employees have less access to participatory management practices than full-time employees. The findings strongly confirm this, demonstrating that part-time employment diminishes workplace participation, particularly for women, who constitute the majority of the part-time workforce. The research highlights significant implications for workplace equity and organizational efficiency. By revealing the disparities in access to participatory management practices, this study underscores the need for policies and practices that promote equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their employment status.
Employee Relations focuses on the dynamics of employment relationships and workplace practices. This paper aligns with the journal's scope by examining the impact of part-time employment on employee participation and workplace equity in Australian workplaces. The study's findings highlight the significance of gender equality and inclusive management practices.