Long Service Leave in Queensland (QLD) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Long service leave in Queensland is governed by the Industrial Relations Act 2016 (Qld), Chapter 2 Part 3. Unlike most other workplace entitlements, long service leave varies significantly between states and territories.

In QLD, employees are entitled to 8.67 weeks of long service leave after 10 years of continuous service with the same employer.

After 10 years of continuous service, Queensland employees receive 8.67 weeks of long service leave. Additional leave accrues at 8.67 weeks per 10 years of subsequent service.

Pro-rata access: Pro-rata after 7 years if employment is terminated by the employer (other than for serious misconduct), or by the employee due to illness, incapacity, or domestic pressing necessity.

Key Facts: Long Service Leave in QLD

Qualifying period: 10 years of continuous service
Entitlement: 8.67 weeks of paid leave
Governed by: Industrial Relations Act 2016 (Qld), Chapter 2 Part 3
Pro-rata: Pro-rata after 7 years if employment is terminated by the employer (other than for serious misconduct), or by the employee due to illness, incapacity, or domestic pressing necessity
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much long service leave do I get in Queensland?

In Queensland, you're entitled to 8.67 weeks of long service leave after 10 years of continuous service with the same employer, under the Industrial Relations Act 2016 (Qld), Chapter 2 Part 3.

Can I get pro-rata long service leave in QLD?

Pro-rata after 7 years if employment is terminated by the employer (other than for serious misconduct), or by the employee due to illness, incapacity, or domestic pressing necessity. 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 QLD?

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 Industrial Relations Act 2016 (Qld), Chapter 2 Part 3.

Does long service leave in Queensland differ from other states?

Yes. Long service leave varies significantly across Australia. Queensland provides 8.67 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 WAWestern Australia SASouth Australia TASTasmania ACTAustralian Capital Territory NTNorthern Territory

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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial or tax advice. Always check your specific award, agreement or contract, or a qualified professional, before you rely on the result.