As we approach the silly season, members who are concerned about being forced to take leave during a Christmas/New Years shutdown period are reminded to call VAHPA to check what their entitlements are.
Some Enterprise Agreements allow for employers to direct staff to take leave during Christmas shut down (with conditions), however other Agreements do not give employers the right to make you take leave during a shutdown period.
This is an issue that comes up every year and we encourage members to check their entitlements rather than assume their Employer can force leave at Christmas time.
Although we recognise that Christmas is a time to take a break and spend time with family and friends, not everyone has the leave to take at this time nor wants to. For those who want to work throughout the Christmas period the option to continue working should be made available to them.
For information on this and other rights and entitlements, don’t hesitate to call the Member Assist team on 1300 322 917