Understanding military leave
In Australia, military leave primarily relates to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Reserve service. Around 20,000 Australians serve as Reservists in the Army, Navy, and Air Force Reserves, balancing civilian employment with military training and potential deployment.
Reserve service types
- Annual continuous training
- Weekend training exercises
- Specialised courses
- Operational deployment
Typical commitments
- 20-50 days per year
- 2-week annual camp
- 1 evening per week
- 1 weekend per month
Defence reserve leave entitlements
While the NES doesn't mandate paid military leave, strong protections exist:
Legal protections
Job protection for reservists
The Defence Reserve Service (Protection) Act 2001 provides strong protections:
- Voluntary service: Employers cannot unreasonably refuse leave
- Compulsory service: Leave must be granted (call-out situations)
- No dismissal: Cannot dismiss due to Reserve membership
- Continuity: Service counts toward continuous employment
Reasonable refusal
Employers can refuse leave for voluntary Reserve service in limited circumstances - such as if it would cause unreasonable hardship to the business. However, this must be a genuine business reason, not simply inconvenience.
Employer support scheme
Defence employer support program
- Financial support available
- Recognition programs
- Employer liaison officers
- Training schedule coordination
Benefits for employers
- Skilled, disciplined employees
- Leadership training benefits
- Emergency response skills
- Supporting national defence
Common military leave mistakes
Discriminating against Reservists
Refusing to hire, promote, or fairly treat employees because of their Reserve commitments is unlawful under the Defence Reserve Service (Protection) Act.
Unreasonably refusing leave
Leave for voluntary Reserve service can only be refused if it causes genuine business hardship. General inconvenience is not sufficient grounds for refusal.
Not maintaining employment conditions
Reservists on service maintain their employment relationship. They shouldn't be disadvantaged in leave accrual, seniority, or other entitlements.
Key takeaways
Supporting employees who serve in the Defence Reserves is both a legal obligation and an opportunity to benefit from highly skilled, disciplined team members. Understanding the protections and working with Defence's employer programs creates positive outcomes for everyone.
RosterElf's leave management helps you track Defence Reserve leave alongside other leave types, ensuring you maintain accurate records and plan for absences.
