CONCLUSION

This evaluation, focused largely on employers' experiences, was carried out to assess the extent to which employers and employees knew about trial periods, the impacts of trial periods for employers and employees, and employers' perceptions of the level of regulatory compliance costs relative to benefits for employers.

The evaluation found that in the first year of its operation, employer awareness of trial periods was high, and a majority of employers knew several key details however comprehensive knowledge was less common. Irrespective of their level of knowledge the trial period provision was used by half of eligible employers, who were generally very satisfied with the way it was working. Employers faced no costs in implementing the provision, and there were indications of costs savings for employers from simplified dismissal processes.

Employees did not appear to have a comprehensive knowledge of trial periods. Those experiencing trial periods had a range of views, recognising some benefits of trial periods for themselves as well as for employers, but also feeling vulnerable to unfair treatment and job loss. However for those retaining employment after a trial period (three quarters of those employed on a trial period), the experience was not negative.