Rostering HR policy templates

The foundational policy covering how rosters are created, communicated and managed — fair rostering principles, operational needs and employee rights in one place.

Sets the operational approach to building shift schedules — shift types, lengths, breaks and how business needs are balanced with employee preferences.

Covers how rosters are changed after publication — employer-initiated changes, notice periods, employee requests and compensation for short-notice changes.

Lets staff swap shifts or arrange coverage with the right controls — approval requirements, eligibility, documentation and manager oversight.

Sets out how staff submit availability and unavailability — notice requirements, approvals and how availability is factored into rostering decisions.

Establishes when and how rosters are published and the minimum notice staff receive — helping you meet award notice requirements consistently.

Frames on-call and standby arrangements — expectations, compensation, response times and how on-call periods are rostered and rotated fairly.

Defines maximum working hours, overtime limits and scheduling restrictions — supporting compliance with the NES, awards and fatigue management.

Sets minimum rest between shifts and limits on consecutive working days — protecting staff wellbeing and supporting fatigue management requirements.

Outlines expectations for accepting rostered shifts and attending work — notification of absences, no-shows and consequences for repeated non-attendance.

Sets principles for distributing shifts equitably — including desirable and less desirable shifts — balancing seniority, skills and fairness.