Absence Policy

A policy on working time and time off should cover a number of areas. All the information you include in your work and absence policies should be checked against the state and federal awards to see that it does not conflict with the proscribed working conditions and entitlements.

Leave and absence Policy

Occasionally, your workers will need or want time off. In certain circumstances, you are legally obligated to give your workers time off eg sick days, to take annual leave, public holidays etc. Your Absence policy needs to include that if an employee is claiming to be sick and that this is the reason for their absence then they need to supply a medical certificate if they are sick for more than 1 day.

In other circumstances you can use your discretion, eg requests involving moving house or looking after a sick relative. However, having policies in place which pre-empt these types of requests will ensure that you deal with such matters consistently. The policy should also cover your stance on parental leave, maternity leave and the associated pay rates if any. Check with your state and Federal government awards to see if you are obligated to pay these.

Working hours Policy

Working hours and starting times should be mentioned in the policy as well as times for breaks and acceptable durations for allowed breaks. Also for full time, part time and casual jobs the starting and finishing as well as expected hours worked should be included in the policy. You should also mention your positions flexible working hours.

Overtime Policy

You are not obliged to offer overtime to your workers or require them to work it. However your overtime policy should still set out the rules on overtime. Also you should mention overtime pay rates and procedures and recording of hours worked. Rates of overtime pay for employees need to be highlighted as does any bonus and incentive payments.

In conjunction with staff attendance and staff absence policies you need to have other business and staff policies to protect your business these include;

1. Workplace health and safety policies that outlines the work place health and safety expectations and procedures.

2. Internet Policy outline the acceptable use of the computer in the workplace

Decide to have a staff absence policy and read our guide on writing policies and procedures to help you get started.