Long service leave is something that is different from state to state. If you are living in the ACT then this post will help you understand what you are entitled to and how to use it to your benefit.Â
Governed by the Long Service Act 1976 (ACT), long service leave can help you take a much needed and well-deserved break from your 9 to 5.
Table of Contents
What are the Australian Capital Territory Entitlements?
In the ACT, long service leave is available to an employee who completes a period of continuous service of at least 7 years. The employee is then entitled to 6.0667 weeks paid leave.
For each subsequent year of continuous service, the employee accrues a further 1/5 of a month of long service leave.
It is also important to note that there is pro-rata entitlements that can be granted when an employee has been employed for at least 5 years. However, the period of employment still needs to be less than 7 years and the employment is terminated for one of the following reasons;
- illness or incapacity or a domestic or other pressing necessity of such a nature to justify the termination;
- after attaining the minimum retiring age;
- death;
Do Public Holidays affect my leave entitlement?
When a public holiday or award holiday falls during long service leave, the period of long service leave is increased by one day for each public or award holiday.
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Who Governs Long Service Leave in the Australian Capital Territory?
In the ACT, there are three separate agencies that govern long service leave;
- WorkSafe ACT;
- The Fair Work Ombudsman; and
- ACT Long Service Leave Authority.
These three agencies are in charge of properly administering long service leave entitlements and provide an outline for workers regarding the minimum conditions of service.
Is there Portable Long Service Leave in the Australian Capital Territory?
Portable long service leave is available in the ACT for specific industries. The ACT Long Service Leave Authority administers portable long service leave schemes for the following industries:
- Construction industry
- Cleaning industry
- Community sector
- Security industry
How can I claim the Long Service Leave Entitlement in the ACT?
To claim long service leave, you need to request it from your employer. But, if you are not employed by a business or company and would like to make a claim of long service leave you can request WorkSafe ACT to investigate your claim by completing the following form.
Key Takeaways
A long service leave claim can help you recharge and refocus. So, if you have worked for a company or business for over 7 years, you should consider taking a well-deserved break.
If you would like to know more about how long service leave in the ACT affects you, you can hire an experienced Lawpath lawyer to guide you through your application.
