Annual leave

Annual leave is a provision that allows employees to take a break from their work duties for a certain period each year, without losing their income. It's a critical part of employment terms, providing workers with necessary rest and personal time. This leave is often planned in advance and can be used for holidays, rest, or personal matters. It's an important aspect of work-life balance and employee well-being.

How much annual leave employees get

Under the National Employment Standards, full-time employees get 4 weeks of paid annual leave for each year of service, and part-time employees get the same pro rata to their ordinary hours. Some shiftworkers get 5 weeks. Leave builds up progressively from the first day and carries over from year to year if it is not taken. Casual employees do not get paid annual leave because their casual loading compensates for it. For example, a part-time employee who works 3 days a week accrues 12 days of paid annual leave a year.

Read our annual leave guide for Australian businesses for the rules on taking, cashing out and paying out leave.