The Liberal Nationals are calling on the State Government to make long service leave more flexible during COVID-19.
While the Morrison Government’s JobKeeper payments will save millions of jobs, many businesses need more flexibility with rostering and leave arrangements to stay afloat during these difficult times.
Currently, employers in Victoria have to give at least 12 weeks’ written notice to employees before long service leave can be taken. The State Government should legislate to reduce this timeframe where employers and employees agree to it.
The NSW Government recently passed temporary changes that waive the notice period so that, by consent, employees can access their entitlements quicker. The FairWork Ombudsman is also encouraging employers and employees to come to mutually-beneficial arrangements that utilise an employee’s paid leave entitlements, including long service leave.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations, Nick Wakeling:
“It would benefit employers and employees if Victoria made long service leave more flexible during the COVID-19 crisis.
“The State Government could do more to help businesses, including reductions to fees and charges, tax deferrals, WorkCover premiums and changes to long service leave.
“We need to help businesses survive this crisis, so they can keep people employed and get back to work once restrictions are lifted.”
