Managing Christmas Closures: What Employers Need to Know
The holiday season is fast approaching, and many businesses prepare for Christmas closures. As an employer, it’s essential to understand your entitlements when it comes to managing leave and how to support your employees during this time.
Can You Enforce Leave Over Christmas?
Yes, employers can require employees to take annual leave during a business closure, but this must be done in line with their applicable Modern Award, Enterprise Agreement, or employment contract. Most Awards specify that employers must provide adequate notice—typically at least 4 weeks—when requiring employees to take leave. Be clear and transparent about your expectations and ensure all communications are documented.
What If an Employee Has No Leave Accrued?
If an employee doesn’t have enough annual leave accrued, you may need to explore other options. Some businesses allow employees to take leave in advance, while others might arrange unpaid leave. Always ensure these arrangements are discussed and agreed upon in writing to avoid any confusion or disputes.
Supporting Employees to Recharge
Christmas closures are not just about closing the office—they’re an opportunity for your team to unwind and recharge after a busy year. Encourage employees to embrace this downtime to focus on their well-being. Share tips on managing stress, suggest activities that promote relaxation, or even host a quick session on work-life balance before the break begins.
Creating a Positive Transition
To make the process smooth:
Plan early: Communicate closure dates and expectations well in advance.
Be flexible: Where possible, accommodate individual circumstances, especially for employees facing financial challenges.
Show gratitude: A simple acknowledgment of your team's hard work can go a long way in fostering goodwill as the year wraps up.
Christmas closures benefit both businesses and employees by offering a reset before the new year. By understanding your obligations and prioritising your team’s well-being, you’ll foster a positive culture that keeps employees motivated and engaged when they return.
Take this time to reflect, recharge, and prepare for an even more successful year ahead.
