The NSW Government has opened a consultation on a draft Bill for a portable long service leave scheme for community services. The Bill will extend leave rights of up to 250,000 community sector workers, including those in disability services.  

The scheme allows workers in community services to take their long service entitlements with them if they change jobs but stay in the industry. The government believes the scheme will encourage workers to stay in the sector longer.  

To help you understand the scheme, the government has produced a factsheet and a regulatory impact statement.  You can also read the draft Bill. Providers can complete a short survey or upload a written submission until Tuesday 30 April.  

The government plans to introduce the Bill to NSW Parliament by mid-year with the expectation that the scheme will begin around July 2025. The supporting regulations will be developed and open for consultation once the Bill has been finalised. 

However, we are keen to hear from our NSW members. We will be making a submission on your behalf and will hold a webinar on Thursday 18 April at 11:30am (AEST) to explain the Bill and hear your opinions. You can register through our event web page.