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Norfolk Island

Vacation and Leave Policies

Understand the regulations on vacation and other types of leave in Norfolk Island

Holiday leave

In Norfolk Island, an external territory of Australia, Australian labor laws, including vacation leave entitlements, are generally applicable. These entitlements are primarily based on the Fair Work Act 2009.

Annual Leave

Full-time employees are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks (20 working days) of paid annual leave per year. This leave entitlement is accrued gradually throughout the year of employment. The legal reference for this is the Fair Work Act 2009, National Employment Standards (NES).

Important Considerations

The timing of vacation leave should be mutually agreed upon by employers and employees, considering operational needs. It's also worth noting that employees may receive an additional leave loading payment (often 17.5%) on top of their regular pay while on annual leave.

The primary legislation outlining employment rights and standards in Australia is the Fair Work Act 2009. The National Employment Standards (NES) is a set of minimum employment entitlements within the Fair Work Act.

Public holidays

Norfolk Island, a small island in the Pacific Ocean, celebrates a mix of Australian national holidays and its own local commemorative days.

New Year's Day

This holiday is celebrated on January 1st, marking the start of the new calendar year.

Australia Day

Australia Day is observed on January 26th. It's a day to reflect on what it means to be Australian, to celebrate contemporary Australia and to acknowledge the history.

Bounty Day

Bounty Day is a local holiday on March 6th. It commemorates the arrival of Pitcairn Island descendants.

Good Friday

The date for Good Friday varies each year. It is always the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Easter Monday

Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday. Its date varies each year.

ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day is celebrated on April 25th. It's a day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that broadly commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

Queen's Birthday

The Queen's Birthday is a holiday to celebrate the birth of Queen Elizabeth II. It is observed on the second Monday in June.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the last Thursday of November. It's a day of giving thanks for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th. It's a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

Boxing Day

Boxing Day is observed on December 26th. It's a holiday traditionally celebrated the day following Christmas Day.

Please note that occasional special holidays may be declared, so it's best to check official government sources or reliable holiday calendars for the most up-to-date information.

Types of leave

In Norfolk Island, Australian labor laws govern the types of leave available to employees. The Fair Work Act 2009 and its associated National Employment Standards (NES) provide the key framework.

Annual Leave

Full-time employees are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks (20 working days) of paid vacation leave per year. This entitlement is outlined in the Fair Work Act 2009, under the National Employment Standards.

Sick Leave / Personal Carer's Leave

Full-time employees accrue 10 days of paid leave per year, which can be used for personal illness, injury, or caring for a family member who is ill. This is also governed by the Fair Work Act 2009, under the National Employment Standards.

Maternity and Parental Leave

Employees may be eligible for unpaid parental leave, including potential access to government-funded Parental Leave Pay. Special Maternity Leave is available for female employees in specific circumstances related to pregnancy or childbirth. These provisions are also part of the Fair Work Act 2009, under the National Employment Standards.

Other Types of Leave

There are several other types of leave available:

  • Compassionate Leave: 2 days of paid leave for each occasion of bereavement of an immediate family member.
  • Community Service Leave: Leave for voluntary emergency service or jury duty. Entitlement and compensation may vary.
  • Long Service Leave: Additional leave based on extended periods of service may be available, often outlined in industry awards or agreements.

Important Considerations

Specific eligibility requirements may apply depending on the type of leave, length of service, and employment status (e.g., full-time, part-time). Collective agreements or industry awards may provide more generous leave entitlements in specific sectors.

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