Emergency Services and Natural Disaster Leave

November 13, 2019 FAQs Know Your Rights Our Resources Tips

A State of Fire Emergency has been declared across 42 Local Government Areas in Queensland, following a period of significantly heightened fire weather conditions expected to continue into next week.

SDA Agreements generally contain provisions for Natural Disaster Leave and Emergency Services Leave.

Natural Disaster Leave

Most Agreements contain a Natural Disaster Leave provision. Where a natural disaster, such as a bushfire occurs, and there is a genuine risk to property, permanent employees may have access to up to 3 days paid leave. You should check the specific provisions of your Agreement or Award to see what entitlement applies. SDA members can contact the SDA on 07 3833 9500 with any questions.

Emergency Services Leave

Generally, employees engaged in voluntary emergency services coordinated through a recognised emergency management body (such as the Rural Fire Service) are entitled to unpaid leave. Some Agreements provide up to two weeks paid leave for permanent employees attending a local emergency, or two days for a non local emergency. You should check the specific provisions of your Agreement or Award to see what entitlement applies. SDA members can contact the SDA on 07 3833 9500 with any questions.

If you are in harms way, please act immediately and follow the advice of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.