Public holidays over the Christmas / New Year period may differ from state to state with differences also in the various awards.
As each state differs slightly in their designated public holidays over the Christmas / New Year period, be sure to check which days are public holidays in your state.
For some organisations, the Christmas / New Year period is a shutdown time and for others it is the busiest time of the year.
For those organisations who have employees working on public holidays there is generally an entitlement to be paid penalty rates. However, check your relevant awards or agreement as there are some awards and agreements which allow employees to:
- substitute the public holiday for a different day
- have a day added to their annual leave balance, or
- have time off in lieu.
Should you need advice on penalty rates or conditons regarding public holidays, please contact us.