Roster notice policy template
A policy establishing when and how rosters are published. Covers minimum notice periods, publication methods and how employees access their schedules — ensuring award compliance.
Roster notice policy
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Why you need a roster notice policy
Many modern awards require employers to provide minimum notice when publishing rosters. For example, the Hospitality Award and Retail Award require 7 days' notice for roster publication. A documented policy ensures you meet these requirements.
Beyond compliance, adequate roster notice helps employees plan their lives, arrange childcare and manage other commitments. It demonstrates respect for work-life balance and reduces last-minute conflicts.
Without clear notice practices, you risk award breaches, employee dissatisfaction and scheduling chaos.
Key elements of a roster notice policy
What your roster notice policy should include
Notice periods
Minimum timeframes for publishing rosters before shifts commence.
Publication methods
How rosters are communicated — app, email, noticeboard or other methods.
Access requirements
Ensuring all employees can access their roster information.
Publication schedule
Regular schedule for when rosters are published.
Award compliance
Meeting notice period requirements under applicable awards.
Change notice
Additional notice requirements when rosters are changed.
What's included in this template
Comprehensive coverage of roster publication requirements
Purpose & scope
Why the policy exists and who it applies to.
Policy statement
The organisation's commitment to timely roster publication.
Notice period requirements
Minimum notice for initial roster publication.
Publication schedule
When rosters are typically published.
Communication methods
How rosters are communicated to employees.
Employee access
Ensuring all staff can access roster information.
Changes to published rosters
Notice requirements for roster changes.
Award requirements
Compliance with specific award notice provisions.
Employee acknowledgement
How employees confirm receipt of rosters.
Record keeping
Documentation of roster publication.
Who should use this template?
Essential for businesses with award notice requirements
Legal disclaimer
This template is designed to reflect Australian workplace standards at the time of publication. It is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice.
Roster notice requirements vary by award. You should check your applicable award for specific notice periods and tailor this template accordingly. Seek independent legal or HR advice where needed.
Regulatory sources
This template is aligned with Australian workplace rostering requirements.
Automate this policy with RosterElf. Our rostering software helps you publish rosters with adequate notice, and our HR software stores policies digitally for easy employee access.
Ready to formalise your roster notice practices?
Download our comprehensive roster notice policy template and ensure consistent, compliant publication practices.
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Roster notice policy FAQ
- Yes. This template provides a solid foundation, but you should tailor it to reflect your specific workplace, industry requirements, and any applicable modern award or enterprise agreement. Pay particular attention to rostering consultation and notice requirements in your award.
- Distribute the policy during onboarding for new employees and via email or team meetings for existing staff. Have employees sign an acknowledgement form confirming they have read and understood the policy. Using rostering software can help automate communication of schedules and policy reminders.
- Most modern awards require rosters to be published 7-14 days before the start of the roster period. The exact requirement varies by award. Check your specific award for the minimum publication timeframe. See our guide on finding which award applies to your business.
- Use consistent, accessible methods like a rostering app, email, or workplace noticeboard. Ensure all employees can access roster information regardless of their shift patterns. Keep records of when rosters were published.
- Late or insufficient roster notice can breach modern award requirements, potentially attracting Fair Work penalties. It also affects employee planning and may increase turnover. Consistent, timely publication builds trust and improves attendance. See our guide on communicating roster changes.
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Disclaimer
This document is a general HR template provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the latest changes in legislation or apply to every workplace situation. RosterElf Pty Ltd and the template provider accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this document. Users should seek independent legal advice and customise the template to ensure it complies with all relevant laws, awards and workplace requirements.