Notice Period in Australian Capital Territory (ACT) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Notice period requirements in Australian Capital Territory are primarily governed by the National Employment Standards (NES) under the Fair Work Act 2009. The NES sets minimum notice periods based on length of service, with an additional week for employees over 45 who have been employed for at least 2 years.

ACT public sector employees have notice requirements under the Public Sector Management Act 1994 and their enterprise agreements.

Your award, enterprise agreement, or employment contract may provide for longer notice periods than the NES minimums. The notice period cannot be shorter than the NES minimum.

Key Facts: Notice Period in ACT

✓1 year or less of service: 1 week's notice
✓1 to 3 years of service: 2 weeks' notice
✓3 to 5 years of service: 3 weeks' notice
✓More than 5 years of service: 4 weeks' notice
✓Employees over 45 with 2+ years of service get an extra week
✓ACT public sector employees may have different notice requirements
✓Employers can pay out the notice period instead (payment in lieu of notice)
✓Casual employees generally don't have notice requirements under the NES

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum notice period in Australian Capital Territory?▼

The minimum notice period in Australian Capital Territory follows the NES: 1 week for up to 1 year of service, 2 weeks for 1-3 years, 3 weeks for 3-5 years, and 4 weeks for 5+ years. Employees over 45 with at least 2 years' service get an additional week.

Can my employer pay me instead of giving notice in ACT?▼

Yes. Under the Fair Work Act, employers can choose to pay you in lieu of notice. This payment must be at least the amount the employee would have received during the notice period, including any allowances and loadings.

Do ACT public sector employees have different notice requirements?▼

ACT public sector employees have notice requirements under the Public Sector Management Act 1994 and their enterprise agreements.

What if my contract in Australian Capital Territory says a longer notice period?▼

Your contract or enterprise agreement can specify a longer notice period than the NES minimum, and that longer period will apply. However, it cannot reduce the notice period below the NES minimum. Always check your specific agreement.

Notice Period in Other States

NSWNew South Wales VICVictoria QLDQueensland WAWestern Australia SASouth Australia TASTasmania NTNorthern Territory

More Workplace Rights in ACT

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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.