ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to advance understanding with regard to the diverse patterns of agency work in different countries, focusing on institutional and comparative analysis. It outlines nature of agency work. It discusses the background, definition and growth of agency work and workers in Australia, Germany and Singapore are examined before conclusions and further avenues for research on agency employment. In general the Australian environment is one of limited regulation as there is no national regulation of temporary work agencies. Agency work can still be considered precarious in Germany, although recent legislation may help to reduce the degree of precariousness. The Singapore labour force has a number of unique characteristics which are important in understanding the role of intermediary employment agencies and the nature of temporary employment. In Europe, temporary agency work has traditionally been a sector subject to regulation, frequently following the concerns raised by trade unions.
