Your Worker can take an extended break from the industry without losing their long service leave entitlement.
If your worker takes a break from employment in the community services sector, it is important to understand how this may impact their recorded Months of Service under the Portable Long Service Leave scheme.
Where a worker is not registered with an eligible employer within the applicable timeframe, their accrued Months of Service will be cancelled. If the worker later returns to the sector, they will recommence recording service from zero.
The applicable timeframes are:
- Less than 60 Months (5 years): 2-year break
- Between 60 Months and 84 Months (5–7 years): 3-year break
- More than 84 Months (7 years): No cancellation applies
Employers should ensure timely reporting of eligible workers to support continuity of service and avoid unintended loss of entitlements.
If a worker remains in the sector but changes roles or employers, you can refer them to the eligibility information to confirm whether their new role is covered under the scheme.
If a worker is employed interstate, there is currently no formal agreement to recognise service across jurisdictions. However, provisions exist under the Portable Long Service Leave Act 2024 to allow recognition if agreements are established in the future. Employers should encourage workers to notify the scheme of interstate employment so records can be updated.