How much is the SCHADS broken shift allowance?

The broken-shift allowance is $21.81 for a shift with one unpaid break (two work periods) and $28.87 for a shift with two unpaid breaks (three work periods, by agreement). These are 1.7% and 2.25% of the SCHADS standard rate of $1,283.10/week (2026-27), paid on top of your hours.

Do I get paid for travel between clients under SCHADS?

Yes. Time spent travelling between clients during your shift counts as time worked and must be paid at your normal rate. If you use your own car between clients you are also entitled to a vehicle allowance of $1.05 per kilometre — the Fair Work Commission temporarily lifted it from $1.01 in AM2026/10, applying from the first full pay period on or after 1 September 2026 and reverting to $1.01 on 28 February 2027.

How many breaks can a SCHADS broken shift have?

A broken shift can have a maximum of two unpaid breaks (three work periods), and the second break is only allowed by agreement. The whole shift must fit within a 12-hour span from start to finish, and any work beyond that span is paid at double time.

What is the maximum span of a SCHADS broken shift?

12 hours from the start of the first work period to the end of the last. You must also get a minimum 10-hour break between broken shifts on consecutive days.

SCHADS Broken Shift & Travel Pay Calculator

Calculate your SCHADS broken-shift allowance plus paid travel time and $1.05/km between clients for home care and disability support work.

Last verified: 3 June 2026Jump to calculator ↓

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