Direction to take annual leave during a shut down
An employee can be directed to take annual leave during a shut down if their award or registered agreement allows it.
On this page:
- What is a shut down?
- Direction to take annual leave under an agreement
- Tools and resources
- Related information
What is a shut down?
A shut down is when a business temporarily closes during slow periods of the year, such as Christmas and New Year. It is also called a 'close down'.
Find information about when an employee can be directed to take paid and unpaid annual leave during a shut down in your award by selecting from the list below.
A shut down isn't the same as a stand down. A stand down is when an employer sends employees home if there is no useful work for them to do. Reasons for stand down include events out of the employer’s control like a natural disaster. See Pay during severe weather and stand down for more information.
Direction to take annual leave under an agreement
If you’re covered by a registered agreement, check the terms of your agreement for information about when an employee can be directed to take annual leave during a shut down. To find a registered agreement, go to the Fair Work Commission website .