Leave provisions

We want to help our employees find the right work/life balance—and our leave entitlements provide the options to make this possible.

Recreation leave - because life isn't just about work
We have different recreation leave entitlements depending on the award conditions our employees are covered by.  In general, most of our full-time staff are entitled to four weeks recreation leave per year.  On top of that, they receive loading on their leave entitlement between 14.5 per cent and 17.5 per cent. Our part-time employees receive pro rata entitlements.

Sick leave - accrues annually
Sick leave accrues at the rate of 10 working days (on full pay) for each completed year of service.  Part-time employees will receive pro rata entitlements.

Accrued days off (flex-time) - when you work more than the standard hours
As part of QME's work/life balance, there are some flexible work options available for discussion between employees and their managers.  For instance, in some areas where employees are required to work more than the standard 7.25 hour day because of peak work demands, they can accumulate the extra time and use it as an 'accrued day off' or for other flexible work-time arrangements.

Long service leave - in recognition of continuous service
Our employees are entitled to 13 weeks paid leave after achieving 10 years of continuous service. (Applications for long service leave can be made after seven years of continuous service, pro rata.)

Parental leave - maternity, spousal or adoptive leave
QME provides generous paid (12 weeks) and unpaid leave (up to 104 weeks) for maternity and adoption situations.  Paid spousal leave of one week is also available.

Special leave - for those unexpected situations
Special leave is available for a range of circumstances and can be approved on either full pay, half pay or without pay.  Examples of typical situations are listed below.

• Emergent/compassionate leave - in the event of a family emergency or unexpected situation.  There is access of up to three days leave in any 12 month period.
• Carers' leave - employees are entitled to use sick leave to provide care and support for members of their immediate family or household.
• Bereavement leave - employees can access two days leave following the death of their spouse or immediate family member.
• Sporting/competition leave - if an employee is selected for a national or international sporting competition, they can access up to five days leave per calendar year.