Yesterday, the NSW Parliament passed changes to the long service leave law which will create greater flexibility for employers and employees to access leave during the on-going COVID-19 crisis.

The amendments to the Long Service Leave Act 1955 will allow employees to take leave in shorter blocks, such as one day a week, and without the traditional one-month notice period, by agreement with their employer.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, who introduced the changes into the NSW Parliament, said the flexibility was very important during a time when businesses are looking at every option to keep staff on their books.

“These changes will provide another way for businesses to help maintain their workforce during what will be an extended period of disruption,” Mr Perrottet said.

“We expect this to be an option which will help people get through the next few months and effectively put money in their weekly budgets.” 

The legislation took effect for six months from yesterday with the possibility of an extension to one year.