The Easter long weekend is coming up, and with it comes the usual confusion over public holiday pay and working rights. We answer the questions surrounding this issue so you can be better informed.
To put it simply, public holiday rates apply to those days with the title “public holiday”. For 2016 in Queensland this means that Saturday the 26th and Monday 28th are public holidays. So if you’re working these days -depending which industry you are in- you will probably receive an award.
Fair Work Australia says that employees should at least get paid their base rate for all hours worked on a public holiday. However this can be increased and an award added depending on what industry you are in and what type of employee you are.
While most casual workers will receive an award for working a public holiday it may be different for other types of workers. For example, if you are a part-time or full-time worker- depending on the industry and the organisation you work for- working on a public holiday when you are not contracted to can be substituted with an alternative option if both the employee and employer come to an agreement. These substitutions include:
- A substituted day- such as an extra day off.
- An additional day of annual leave.
You can find out which award applies to you by visiting Fair Work Australia here.
As an employee you also have the right to refuse to work on public holidays if you have a reasonable reason such as the following:
- A personal circumstance such as a family responsibility.
- Whether the employee will get penalty rates.
- How much notice the employee was given of the shift.
- Whether the employee is a casual, full time or part time employee.
- Whether the employee’s salary includes work on a public holiday.
This information and more can be found at Fair Work Australia by clicking here.
As an employer it is your responsibility to make sure your employees are paid appropriately.
If you have any questions or concerns it is best to check with Fair Work Australia by clicking here.
