Do I have to give a reason for taking leave in Australia?

For annual leave you do not need to give a reason. For personal/sick or carer's leave your employer can ask for evidence (like a medical certificate) that would satisfy a reasonable person that the leave was taken for the stated purpose. The Fair Work Act protects you against being required to disclose more than that.

How much leave am I entitled to under the NES?

The National Employment Standards provide 4 weeks paid annual leave per year (section 87), 10 days paid personal/carer's leave per year (section 96), and 2 days paid compassionate leave per occasion (section 104). Awards and contracts can provide more. Casual employees have different entitlements.

Can my employer reject my leave request?

For annual leave, an employer can refuse if the request is unreasonable. For personal/carer's leave the entitlement is generally triggered by the situation, not the employer's approval. Unpaid leave is always at the employer's discretion unless covered by another legal right (like parental leave).

Leave Request Letter

Free template letter to request annual, personal/sick, carer's, compassionate or unpaid leave — citing the relevant section of the Fair Work Act. Not legal advice.

Last verified: 1 July 2025

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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.

Leave Request Letter

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