ACT brings portable long service leave to hospitality Jan 1
The ACT will start portable long service leave on 1 January 2027. It covers hospitality, accommodation, hairdressing and beauty workers.
The ACT government rejected a Canberra Liberals proposal. The Liberals wanted to review the financial impact before the scheme expanded to hospitality, accommodation, hairdressing and beauty businesses.
The opposition feared the scheme could threaten business viability. Skills Minister Michael Pettersson said a review would block reform.
The reform helps workers keep entitlements when they change jobs. The scheme begins 1 January 2027 after earlier delays.
Employers will contribute 1.07 per cent of ordinary wages. Food and beverage businesses get discounted rates for the first three years.
The government has already staged the transition to ease the shift. The Liberals cited concerns from cafe owners, restaurant operators and barbers about rising employment costs.
- 1 January 2027
- Implementation date
- 1.07 per cent of ordinary wages
- Employer contribution rate
- 3 years for food and beverage
- Discount period
- Independent review (rejected)
- Opposition proposal
Why it mattersHospitality and beauty workers gain job mobility and guaranteed leave. But employers face new mandatory costs during a period of tight margins.
