Christmas/New Year Public Holidays and Pay Rates

Wages Penalty Rates

 

The holidays are fast approaching and here in Queensland, we have three and a half (3 1/2) Public Holidays over the Christmas/New Year period:

  • Sunday 24 December 2023 (from 6 pm to 12 midnight) - Christmas Eve

  • Monday 25 December 2023 - Christmas Day

  • Tuesday 26 December 2023 - Boxing Day

  • Monday 1 January 2024 - New Year's Day

For all permanent employees (full-time or part-time), they are entitled to be paid ordinary wages for the public holidays which fall on their ordinary working days. If an employee is required to work on any public holiday (including part day public holidays), they are entitled to a penalty rate of 250% for a minimum of four (4) hours.

If an employee is required to be on call during the Christmas/New Year period, they are entitled to the following penalty rates in accordance with the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award 2020:

Day/Time

150%

(time & a half)

200%

(double time)

Minimum Entitlement

Monday to Friday (7am to 6pm)

-

-

Ordinary rates

Monday to Friday

(after 6pm and prior to 12am (midnight))

2

After first 2 hours

Minimum 3 hours payment

Monday to Friday

(after 12am (midnight) and prior to 7am)

-

3

Minimum 3 hours payment

Saturday

(prior to 12pm (noon))

2

After first 2 hours

Minimum 3 hours payment

Saturday

(after 12pm (noon))

-

Anytime worked after 12 noon

Minimum 3 hours payment

Sunday

-

4

Minimum 4 hours payment

Public Holidays

250% for all time worked.

 

Minimum of 4 hours for hours payment

plus

a full time or part time employee is to be paid ordinary hours for the public holiday not worked

 

 

If you have any questions about this information, or would like some more specific advice, please contact the MPAQ Advisory Team on 07 3273 0800 or email advice@mpaq.com.au.

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Author
Emma Ross
Emma Ross Senior HR Business Partner

In early 2020, Emma rejoined MPAQ to extend invaluable HR support and guidance to members and internal team. With over a decade of experience in the labour hire sector, encompassing roles in building and construction, hospitality, and the university sector, Emma possesses a comprehensive understanding of the employee life cycle. Her extensive background equips her with profound insights into HR, and she is passionate about ensuring compliance with employment legislation. Emma recognises the significance of cultivating and sustaining robust working relationships with staff members.

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