Dr First Job

Many workplaces have differing requirements for appropriate presentation and uniform and this information is often outlined in internal company policy. If you are being singled out and treated differently to other staff who have the same nails as you it sounds like your manager may be bullying you. 

Unfortunately the nature of casual work means that shifts can be cut. This makes it very hard to organise your finances and day to day life - in fact the ACTU has recently launched a campaign about just this issue. You can read about it at securejobs.org.au

If you actually start half an hour before you rostered start time you should be paid for it. If this is happening to a few people at your work you can act as a group to get your employer to fix this. 

You should’ve been paid for the all the shifts you worked, even though you weren’t yet accepted as an employee. With regard to an allowance for working a split shift you will need to check your award. Try calling the Unions Australia helpline on 1300 486 466 if you're not sure which award you are under.

Occupational Health and Safety is an important issue in every workplace and you shouldn’t be made to do something that puts this in jeopardy.