To lose a loved one or share the unhappy moment with them is a highly emotional experience for every individual. Considering this, employees in Australia have been provided with the convenience of having Compassionate Leave i.e. leave of bereavement. This leave provides an opportunity to employees to gain back their mental energy, attend funerals or look after seriously ill relatives.
It is important that both the employer and employee know the rules and payment procedure for Compassionate Leave in 2025. In this article, we shall provide you with answers to vital questions regarding the eligibility for Compassionate Leave, rate of payment, process of application and more.
Brief introduction to Compassionate Leave
Compassionate leave is provided if an employee’s close relative or colleague passes away, falls seriously ill or is seriously hurt. The reason behind this leave is to provide the person with some time to recover emotionally and practically during this troublesome period.
Key Points:
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Full-time and part-time staff receive 2 days of paid leave for each occasion. Casual staff receive 2 days of unpaid leave. |
| Pay | This payment is received at the employee’s Base Rate of Pay, without any extra allowance or bonus. |
| Application Process | The employee must inform his employer as early as possible. The employer can request documents like death certificate, medical certificate etc. |
| Official Source | Fair Work Ombudsman |
Which employees are eligible for compassionate leave?
Compassionate leave is available for all categories of employees in Australia, be it Full-Time, Part-Time or Casual employees.
1. Full-time and part-time employees:
- Receive 2 days paid leave for every incident.
- This is paid according to their working hours.
2. Casual employees:
- Receive 2 days unpaid leave for every incident.
- They do not receive any money for this duration.
This leave can be taken only in the following situations:
✔ A close relative passes away.
✔ A close individual has a life-threatening illness or injury.
✔ In the event of miscarriage or stillbirth.
The employer might request a death certificate, medical certificate, or other such documentation as evidence from the employee.
Definition of “Immediate Family”
Compassionate leave shall be only acceptable where the bereaved is among the employee’s Immediate Family or Household Member.
Immediate family entails:
- Spouse or De Facto Partner (domestic partnership but not formally married, including gay and lesbian partners).
- Children (such as son, daughter, step son/daughter, adopted child).
- Parents, grandparents, step parents.
- Siblings, step siblings.
✅ Cohabitants:
Any individual who resides with the employee in the same address, a family member or not.
How is payment decided?
If the employee is full-time or part-time, they are paid this leave according to their base rate of pay.
Important points:
- It is paid on the basis of the employee’s normal working hours.
- No extra allowance, bonus or overtime charges are included with this.
- Casual workers do not receive any salary during this time.
Application for compassionate leave
- Notify your employer at once – When you require this leave, notify your employer (Manager/HR).
- Provide the necessary documents – In case the employer requests evidence, provide a death certificate, medical certificate, or other such documents.
- Check your company policy – Some companies have varying rules, so know your workplace policy.
Can Compassionate Leave be availed on separate days?
✅ Yes, employees can avail it in two ways:
- As two consecutive days (for example, Monday and Tuesday).
- On separate days (for example, one day today and another after some time).
This solely depends on the employee’s situation and the employer’s approval.
What are the mistakes to avoid while applying?
- Not informing on time – Inform your employer immediately.
- Providing Inadequate Documents – Ensure you possess the correct certificates.
- Misunderstanding your eligibility – Know which employees are eligible for paid and unpaid leave.
Conclusion
In 2025, compassionate leave is an essential facility for employees that brings mental and emotional comfort during challenging times. It is essential to ensure that
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible for compassionate leave?
All employees (full-time, part-time, and casual) are eligible. Full-time and part-time employees receive 2 days of paid leave, while casual employees get 2 days of unpaid leave.
Q2. What situations qualify for compassionate leave?
Compassionate leave is granted if an immediate family or household member passes away, has a life-threatening illness/injury, or experiences a miscarriage or stillbirth.
Q3. Is compassionate leave paid or unpaid?
Full-time and part-time employees receive paid leave at their base rate, while casual employees are entitled to unpaid leave.
Q4. How do I apply for compassionate leave?
You must notify your employer as soon as possible and provide supporting evidence (such as a death notice or medical certificate) if requested.
Q5. Can I split my compassionate leave into separate days?
Yes, you can take 2 consecutive days or separate them into different days, depending on your needs and your employer’s approval.