Wage history data plays a vital role in determining whether an outcome period is eligible to be claimed as partial or full under different tracking methods. This article aims to clarify the requirements for wage histories and the process of adding wage histories to placement records. We will cover the necessary data points that need to be entered and the implications of different tracking methods on the required fields.
Wage History Requirements
Wage history data is used to calculate the eligibility of an outcome period and whether it qualifies as partial or full, depending on the chosen tracking method. Two primary tracking methods are used:
JEHR Tracking Method Requirements
The JEHR (Job Seeker's Employment Hour Result) tracking method requires that benchmark hours are met during the outcome period. These benchmark hours are defined based on the Basic Benefit Rates, which serve as the target for the total hours a Job Seeker must work to achieve the desired outcome. Volunteer hours are also tracked using these requirements.
JRRR Tracking Method Requirements
The JRRR (Job Seeker's Rate Reduction Results) tracking method requires that a basic benefit rate is met. The Basic Benefit Rates set the target for the rate reduction that must be achieved during the outcome period.
Before entering wage histories or payslips against a placement record, certain values must be defined:
- DHS Cycle Dates: DHS cycle dates are required before tracking wage histories. These dates can be manually entered via the placement details section. The DHS cycle must fall within 14 days of the placement start date.
- Outcome Start Date: When the DHS cycle is entered, the outcome start date must be overridden to match the DHS cycle date. This ensures that wage histories are tracked within the correct fortnightly periods.
- For the JRRR tracking methods a Basic Benefit Rate has to be selected and for JEHR tracking methods a Job Seeker must have Benchmark hours determined.
- 4-Week Outcome Claim: For 26-week outcomes, wage histories cannot be entered until the 4-week outcome is claimed.
Adding Wage Histories to a Placement
To add wage histories to a placement, follow these steps:
- Click the "+" button within the wage histories section of the placement record.
- A modal will appear, prompting you to enter various data points related to the wage history. These data points include:
- Pay Period Start Date: The start date of the payment period.
- Pay Period End Date: The end date of the payment period.
- Hours Worked: The total hours worked during this period.
- Rate: The hourly rate for the work performed.
- Gross Income: The gross income earned during this period.
- Year to Date: Indicate whether your organization is using the Year-to-Date calculation. (Note: Pressing this button does not execute the calculation.)
- Pay Date: The day when the payment was provided to the Job Seeker.
- Verification Source: Specify the source of verification, which could include a payslip, letter from the employer, file note, or group certificate.
- Comments: Include any additional information required.
- File: An attachment can be added as evidence or supporting documentation.
Note: If a pay period spans multiple fortnights, the values will be divided across the relevant pay periods.
- Press ‘Save’
Mandatory Fields Depending on Tracking Method
Outside of the generic required fields, other fields will be mandatory depending on the tracking method:
- For JEHR Tracking: Hours worked will be mandatory.
- For JRRR Tracking: Gross income will be mandatory.
- For Volunteer Tracking: Hours worked will be mandatory.
Outcome Status and Calculation
Outcomes will be displayed as at risk until the wage histories calculate that the minimum requirements for a partial outcome have been met by a participant. Individual fortnights will be calculated, with fortnights not meeting the requirements shown in red, while those meeting the requirements will be shown in green.
Conclusion
Understanding wage history requirements and accurately adding wage histories to placement records are crucial for determining the eligibility of outcome periods and assessing the progress of Job Seekers. Following the guidelines provided in this article will help administrators and users manage placements effectively and ensure accurate tracking of wage histories to support Job Seekers in their journey towards successful outcomes.