Stand down

Stand down is a temporary suspension of work where employees are not required to attend work, and consequently, are not paid. This could be due to events outside the employer's control, like natural disasters, equipment failures or industrial actions. It's different from being laid off or terminated as it is typically a short-term solution.

When you can stand down employees

Under section 524 of the Fair Work Act, you can stand down employees without pay only if they cannot usefully be employed because of industrial action (other than action organised by the employer), a breakdown of machinery or equipment that you cannot reasonably be held responsible for, or a stoppage of work for any cause that you cannot reasonably be held responsible for. An enterprise agreement or employment contract may change these rules. Employees can ask to take paid leave instead. For example, a bakery whose ovens break down after a storm may stand down bakers who have no useful work.

Read our guide to standing down employees, or call our HR advice line.