Long Service Leave in South Australia (SA) 2026 — Your Rights & Entitlements

Last updated: March 2026

Long service leave in South Australia is governed by the Long Service Leave Act 1987 (SA). Unlike most other workplace entitlements, long service leave varies significantly between states and territories.

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

South Australia is one of the most generous states for long service leave, providing 13 weeks (a full quarter-year) after 10 years of continuous service. 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 SA

Qualifying period: 10 years of continuous service
Entitlement: 13 weeks of paid leave
Governed by: Long Service Leave Act 1987 (SA)
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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much long service leave do I get in South Australia?

In South Australia, 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 1987 (SA).

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

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 SA?

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 1987 (SA).

Does long service leave in South Australia differ from other states?

Yes. Long service leave varies significantly across Australia. South Australia 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 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.