How much notice does my employer have to give me in Australia?

Under the National Employment Standards, the minimum notice period depends on your length of continuous service: 1 week for up to 1 year, 2 weeks for 1–3 years, 3 weeks for 3–5 years, and 4 weeks for more than 5 years. Employees over 45 years old with at least 2 years of service receive an additional week.

Can my employer pay me instead of giving notice?

Yes. Your employer can choose to pay you in lieu of notice. This means they pay you the amount you would have earned during the notice period instead of requiring you to work it out. The payment must be at least the full amount the employee would have received, including any allowances and loadings.

Do I have to give notice when I resign in Australia?

The NES does not set minimum notice periods for employees who resign — this is typically covered by your employment contract or applicable award/enterprise agreement. Most awards require employees to give the same notice period as the employer would need to give, or one week if no period is specified.

Do casual employees get a notice period in Australia?

No. Casual employees are not entitled to a minimum notice period under the NES. Because casual employment is intended to be irregular and short-term, either party can end the employment without notice. However, some awards or enterprise agreements may include specific notice requirements for regular casuals.

Notice Period Calculator

Find the minimum notice period required under the National Employment Standards (NES) based on length of service and age.

Last verified: 21 May 2026

The minimum notice period is 1 week for under 1 year of service, up to 4 weeks for 5+ years. Workers over 45 with 2+ years get an extra week. Your award or contract may require more.

AIGot a tricky case? Ask FairWork Mate AI — 2 free questions → NES minimum notice period staircase: 1 week under 1 year, 2 weeks 1–3 years, 3 weeks 3–5 years, 4 weeks 5+ years, plus 1 extra week for employees 45+ with 2+ years service

NES minimum notice period staircase: 1 week under 1 year, 2 weeks 1–3 years, 3 weeks 3–5 years, 4 weeks 5+ years, plus 1 extra week for employees 45+ with 2+ years service

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Notice Period Australia: 1 to 5 Weeks by Years of Service

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