Long Service Leave After 20 Years
See your LSL entitlement by state, calculate payout values, and check pro-rata eligibility.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Quick Answer
After 20 years of continuous service, you are entitled to long service leave in all Australian states and territories. In most states, this is 17.33 weeks of paid leave.
LSL Entitlement by State After 20 Years
| State | Qualifying Period | Weeks Entitled | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | 10 years | 17.33 weeks | Entitled |
| Victoria | 7 years | 24.76 weeks | Entitled |
| Queensland | 10 years | 17.33 weeks | Entitled |
| South Australia | 10 years | 26.00 weeks | Entitled |
| Western Australia | 10 years | 17.33 weeks | Entitled |
| Tasmania | 10 years | 17.33 weeks | Entitled |
| Northern Territory | 10 years | 26.00 weeks | Entitled |
| Australian Capital Territory | 7 years | 17.33 weeks | Entitled |
Pro-rata entitlements typically apply only when employment is terminated by the employer, or in cases of redundancy or resignation. Check your state legislation for specific conditions.
LSL Payout Value After 20 Years
Estimated payout value at common salary levels (using the most common entitlement of 8.667 weeks per 10 years):
| Annual Salary | Weekly Rate | LSL Weeks (17.33) | Payout Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $60,000 | $1,153.85 | 17.33 | $20,000.77 |
| $80,000 | $1,538.46 | 17.33 | $26,667.69 |
| $100,000 | $1,923.08 | 17.33 | $33,334.62 |
| $120,000 | $2,307.69 | 17.33 | $40,001.54 |
SA and NT provide 13 weeks per 10 years — payouts in those states would be approximately 50% higher than shown above.
Pro-Rata Entitlement After 20 Years
After 20 years, you have exceeded the qualifying period in all states, so pro-rata does not apply — you have a full entitlement. Your leave continues to accrue proportionally for each additional year of service beyond the qualifying period.
Can You Be Paid Out Instead of Taking Leave?
During employment: In most states, you can agree with your employer to cash out some of your long service leave. However, some states require you to take a minimum period of leave first. Rules vary — check your state legislation.
On termination: All accrued long service leave must be paid out in your final pay when employment ends, regardless of the reason for leaving. This is a legal requirement in all states.
LSL on Redundancy or Termination
When your employment ends after 20 years:
- You are entitled to a full payout of all accrued long service leave in every state and territory.
- LSL is paid at your ordinary rate of pay at the time of termination.
- The payout is in addition to any notice period, redundancy pay, and accrued annual leave.
- LSL payouts may be subject to different tax treatment depending on the reason for termination and your years of service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much long service leave do I get after 20 years?
After 20 years, most Australian states provide 17.33 weeks of long service leave (based on 8.667 weeks per 10 years). South Australia and the Northern Territory provide 26.00 weeks. The ACT provides 17.33 weeks.
Can I cash out long service leave instead of taking it?
In most states, you can cash out long service leave by agreement with your employer, but the rules vary. Some states require you to take at least a minimum period of leave before cashing out the rest. When employment ends, all accrued LSL must be paid out regardless.
What is the long service leave entitlement by state in Australia?
NSW, QLD, WA, and TAS: 8.667 weeks after 10 years. Victoria: 8.667 weeks after 7 years. SA and NT: 13 weeks after 10 years. ACT: 6.067 weeks after 7 years. Additional service beyond the qualifying period accrues proportionally.
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.