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Understanding Pro-Rata LSL Entitlements

Learn when employees are entitled to pro-rata Long Service Leave payments upon termination.

LSLCalc Team·20 December 2025·7 min read

What is Pro-Rata LSL?

Pro-rata Long Service Leave refers to a proportional payment of LSL entitlements when an employee leaves before reaching full eligibility. Not all terminations qualify for pro-rata payments.

When Does Pro-Rata Apply?

Pro-rata entitlements typically apply in these circumstances:

Qualifying Termination Types

  • **Redundancy** - Position eliminated for operational reasons
  • **Illness/Incapacity** - Employee unable to continue working
  • **Domestic Necessity** - Pressing family reasons (some states)
  • **Employer-initiated termination** - Dismissal not for serious misconduct
  • **Death** - Payment to estate/dependents
  • Non-Qualifying Terminations

  • Resignation without qualifying reason
  • Dismissal for serious misconduct
  • Abandonment of employment
  • State-Specific Rules

    Each state has different thresholds for when pro-rata becomes available:

    **Victoria:** After 7 years for most termination types

    **NSW:** After 5 years for redundancy, illness, domestic reasons, or employer-initiated termination

    **Queensland:** Varies by award/agreement

    **Other states:** Generally after 7 years

    How to Calculate Pro-Rata

    The calculation is relatively straightforward once you know the accrual rate:

    Pro-rata entitlement = Years of service × Accrual rate

    For example, in Victoria after 6 years:

  • 6 years × 0.867 weeks/year = 5.2 weeks
  • Important Considerations

  • Check the specific legislation for your state
  • Verify the termination type qualifies
  • Consider any leave already taken
  • Include the final pay period in calculations
  • Need to Calculate LSL?

    Use our free calculator to get accurate results for any Australian state.

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