Hi Rhianon

It may be that they are not trying to do the dodgy at all and are just offering you a position within the organisation where there is a position available BUT it could be a little dodgy. I suppose that at least he was honest with you and told you that while there wasn't a position he would make one for you when you had the first discussions with him.

If I were in your position I would insist on the following:
* transfer of all accrued leave entitlements like sick leave and long service leave and a letter in writing to this effect
* no probation period of any sort
* an undertaking that if the new position does not work out for any reason (within an agreed time frame - say 3 or 6 months) that you can go back to your old position in the other organisation. It may be that you could agree to this as the three months probation period - so tell them that you are happy with three months probation but want it in writing that if it isn't a good fit (specially if you think it will be more stressful) then you can go back to your old position.

I wouldn't get too nasty in the first instance but if they don't give you want you want then suggest to them that you will contact the workplace authority and ask them about your maternity leave entitlements

Good luck