Employees are entitled to be absent from work in the event of the death of a member of their immediate family or household.
The term “immediate family or household member” includes:
- a spouse or partner
- a relative of the employee or employee’s spouse or partner, including:
- a child (including adopted, step or ex-nuptial)
- a parent (including foster, step or legal guardian)
- a grandparent
- a grandchild
- a sibling or step sibling
- any person who usually resides with the employee.
Permanent and fixed-term employees
Paid leave: Permanent and fixed-term employees may take up to 10 days paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of a member of their immediate family or household. Additional paid leave may be granted at the department’s discretion.
Unpaid leave: Unpaid bereavement leave may be taken by agreement with the department.
Casual employees
Casual employees can take unpaid time off work, or leave work upon the death of an immediate family or household member in Australia. The casual employee should discuss their leave requirements with their manager and agree on the time they’ll be away from work. If no agreement is reached, the employee can be absent from work for up to two days per occasion. The casual employee will not be paid while they’re absent from work.
Evidence required
The department may request evidence of death in the form of a death notice or other written evidence.
