Contractor FAQs
As a contractor you don’t want to have to worry about how or when you’re going to be paid, or when your contract is due for renewal. That’s why Spark is here to help.
• How do I get a contract ICT job?
• What are the benefits of contacting?
• What are the different types of contractor?
• When will I get paid?
• How are timesheets processed?
• Will my contract be renewed?
• When is Superannuation paid?
• I’ve got more questions – who do I speak to?
A complete contractor fact sheet can also be downloaded by Contractor_FAQs.
How do I get a contract ICT job?
Spark connects IT contractors with some of Australia’s top employers. Browse our current contract ICT jobs or send us your resume.
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What are the benefits of contracting?
Never worked as an IT contractor before? Weigh up the positives and negatives before taking your first step into the world of contracting.
Benefits of IT contract jobs:
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Flexible, varied work that is typically project based
- Exciting projects – work as the technical specialist
- Higher hourly rate
- Provides experience in a role/company before committing long-term
- Excellent opportunities to network and gain different skills/experience
Negatives of IT contract jobs:
- No leave, public holiday or sick pay
- Job uncertainty. There's no guarantee of an extension and businesses frequently change their projects
- Possible periods of unemployment in-between contracts
- Unstructured career path with a lack of training and development
- Hired for your skills only – less benefits
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What are the different types of contractor?
You can work as a Spark contractor in one of several different ways:
PAYG Contracting: You become an employee of Spark for the duration of your contact assignment. We will require you to provide us with your tax, super, banking and personal details as well as completing the required forms and contracts.
Working through a Management company: You elect to be paid through a GST registered business that is not your own. Typically these are payroll management companies that specialize in salary packaging to optimize your tax throughout your contracting career
PTY Contracting: You are the nominated representative of a GST registered business. To take up this option the business will need to provide certificates of currency for Workers Compensation Insurance, Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurances as well as Business registration documents and banking details.
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When will I get paid?
If you have your approved timesheet to us by 4pm on a Tuesday you will be paid by EFT by the end of the week. PTY contractors and those working through management companies must also send a corresponding tax invoice in order for us to process payment.
Please ensure you provide Spark with up-to-date account details.
Pay cycles will vary between weekly or fortnightly subject to the client assignment you are working on.
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How are timesheets processed?
Timesheet can be downloaded or accessed online. Your password will be emailed to you, once you become a Spark contractor.
Timesheets need to be approved before they can be processed.
You must submit your timesheet to Spark by 4pm on a Tuesday to ensure prompt payment. Spark accepts timesheets via email, fax or online, subject to our client's requirements.
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Will my contract be renewed?
We recognise that one of the most stressful aspects of working as a contractor is the uncertainty surrounding renewals.
Spark tackles this issue at least 4 weeks prior to your scheduled contract end date. We are here to ensure you know where you stand and can assist in making the transition to your next contract period as seamless as possible.
Alternatively if your contract is coming to an end we will work with you to find your next Spark assignment.
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When is Superannuation paid?
Super is paid into your nominated account on a quarterly basis. Please ensure Spark has your current account details.
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I've got more questions – who do I speak to?
For questions big and small, please don't hesitate to contact your Spark Candidate Manager. They'll be able to help with details of your role, start times and locations, pay queries and other issues.
Not sure who your Candidate Manager is? No problem, just contact us and the right person will be in touch with you shortly.
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