Understanding Portable Long Service Leave: What Employers Must Know

Portable Long Service Leave (PLSL) is an important but often misunderstood topic for employers. It ensures that workers in certain industries can accumulate long service leave entitlements even if they change employers — as long as they stay in the same industry.

Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know.

Which Industries Are Covered?

In Victoria, portable long service leave applies to:

• Building and construction — managed by CoINVEST
• Community services — managed by Portable Long Service Authority
• Contract cleaning — managed by the Portable Long Service Authority
• Security services — managed by the Portable Long Service Authority

In Queensland and the ACT, similar schemes exist through QLeave and the ACT Long Service Leave Authority.

When Did Each Scheme Start?

• Building and Construction (VIC) — Portable leave has existed since the 1970s.
• Community Services and Contract Cleaning (VIC) — Commenced 1 July 2019.
• Security Services (VIC) — Commenced 1 January 2020.
• Queensland schemes (construction, cleaning, community services) — Operating since the 1990s, managed by QLeave.

Employer Responsibilities

If your business operates in these industries, you must:

• Register your business with the relevant authority
• Register each eligible employee (including casuals and part-timers)
• Report quarterly:
  • Employee hours worked
  • Gross wages paid
• Pay the required levy based on wages

Quarterly reporting ensures your employees continue to accrue their entitlements accurately.

Why Is This Important?

Failing to comply with registration and reporting obligations can result in penalties and back-pay liabilities.
Understanding your responsibilities ensures you protect your employees’ entitlements — and your business.

Ready to Do More Than Just Meet Compliance?