Long Service Leave in Australia — Your Entitlements
Last updated: June 2026
What is Long Service Leave?
Long service leave (LSL) is a uniquely Australian entitlement that rewards employees for long-term service with the same employer. After reaching the qualifying period, you become entitled to a period of paid leave.
Unlike annual leave and sick leave, which are governed nationally by the Fair Work Act, long service leave is set by state and territory legislation — so the entitlements vary across Australia.
Entitlements by State and Territory
| State/Territory | Entitlement | Qualifying period |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 2 months after 10 years | 10 years |
| VIC | ~8.67 weeks after 7 years | 7 years |
| QLD | 8.67 weeks after 10 years | 10 years |
| WA | ~8.67 weeks after 10 years | 10 years |
| SA | 13 weeks after 10 years | 10 years |
| TAS | ~8.67 weeks after 10 years | 10 years |
| NT | 13 weeks after 10 years | 10 years |
| ACT | ~6.67 weeks after 7 years | 7 years |
Some states allow pro-rata LSL after a shorter qualifying period (e.g. after 7 years in some states).
Who Qualifies?
Most full-time, part-time, and casual employees are entitled to LSL after completing the qualifying period with the same employer. Continuity of service can be maintained through:
- Change of ownership (in most states, service continues)
- Approved leave periods
- Periods of authorised unpaid leave (in most states)
When Can You Take Long Service Leave?
You must give your employer reasonable notice. The timing of leave is generally negotiated — your employer can postpone if taking it at that time would be genuinely inconvenient for the business, but cannot deny the leave entirely.
Is LSL Paid Out on Termination?
In most states, if you are dismissed or resign after the qualifying period (or after a shorter pro-rata period), you are entitled to a payout of your accrued LSL. The pro-rata payout period varies by state — check your state's legislation.
Portable LSL Schemes
Some industries have portable long service leave schemes where your LSL follows you between employers in the same industry. These apply in:
- Building and construction
- Contract cleaning
- Community services (some states)
Check if your industry has a portable scheme through your state's long service leave authority.
Cashing Out LSL
Unlike annual leave, you generally cannot cash out LSL — you must take it as leave. Some enterprise agreements may allow cashing out, but this is the exception.