Directing an employee to take annual leave

An employer can only direct an employee to take annual leave in some situations. For example, when:

  • the business is closed during the Christmas and New Year period
  • an employee has accumulated excess annual leave.

The rules about when and if an employer can direct an employee to take annual leave is set out in awards and registered agreements.

To find out more visit:

Source reference: Fair Work Act 2009 s.93 (relates to award terms dictating when annual leave may be taken)

Related information

Have a workplace problem?

Problems can happen in any workplace. If you have a workplace problem, we have tools and information to help you resolve it.

Check out our Fixing a workplace problem section for practical information about:

  • working out if there is a problem
  • speaking with your employer or employee about fixing the problem
  • getting help from us if you can't fix the problem.

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