The casualisation of academic labour is increasing worldwide. Whereas continuing academics have been subject to longstanding investigation, there are now growing concerns about the work experiences of casual academics. Drawing on a qualitative study comprising 30 in-depth interviews with casual academics, full-time continuing academics and Human Resources Directors tasked with recruiting, selecting, remunerating and developing casual academics, this article identifies the paradoxical nature of how casual academics are being managed in the contemporary Australian higher education sector. It also investigates casual academics' career aspirations. The requirement for more effective and equitable management of casual academics is discussed in light of the findings.