Long Service Leave in Northern Territory (NT) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Long service leave in Northern Territory is governed by the Long Service Leave Act 1981 (NT). Unlike most other workplace entitlements, long service leave varies significantly between states and territories.

In NT, employees are entitled to 13 weeks of long service leave after 10 years of continuous service with the same employer.

The Northern Territory matches South Australia with one of the most generous long service leave entitlements at 13 weeks after 10 years. Additional leave accrues at 1.3 weeks per year of subsequent service.

Pro-rata access: Pro-rata after 7 years if terminated by the employer (not for serious misconduct).

Key Facts: Long Service Leave in NT

✓Qualifying period: 10 years of continuous service
✓Entitlement: 13 weeks of paid leave
✓Governed by: Long Service Leave Act 1981 (NT)
✓Pro-rata: Pro-rata after 7 years if terminated by the employer (not for serious misconduct)
✓Long service leave is paid at the employee's ordinary pay rate
✓Service with related entities may count towards continuous service
✓Unpaid leave and parental leave may or may not break continuity depending on circumstances

Calculate Your Entitlements

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much long service leave do I get in Northern Territory?▼

In Northern Territory, you're entitled to 13 weeks of long service leave after 10 years of continuous service with the same employer, under the Long Service Leave Act 1981 (NT).

Can I get pro-rata long service leave in NT?▼

Pro-rata after 7 years if terminated by the employer (not for serious misconduct). This means you may be able to access a proportional amount of leave before reaching the full qualifying period.

What happens to my long service leave if I resign in NT?▼

If you resign after completing the full qualifying period (10 years), you are entitled to be paid out your accrued long service leave. If you resign before this, you generally won't receive pro-rata payment unless specific circumstances apply under the Long Service Leave Act 1981 (NT).

Does long service leave in Northern Territory differ from other states?▼

Yes. Long service leave varies significantly across Australia. Northern Territory provides 13 weeks after 10 years. By comparison, SA and NT offer 13 weeks after 10 years, while the ACT requires only 7 years for 6.07 weeks. Victoria allows pro-rata access from 7 years.

Long Service Leave in Other States

NSWNew South Wales VICVictoria QLDQueensland WAWestern Australia SASouth Australia TASTasmania ACTAustralian Capital Territory

More Workplace Rights in NT

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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.