Worker frequently asked questions
Common questions from workers about the Community Services Industry portable long service leave scheme.
Registration and eligibility
How do I register for the scheme?
In most cases, workers will be registered automatically when their employer lodges a service return. Workers will be able to check their registration status through the online system from April 2026.
Who is eligible to join the scheme?
If you perform work in an eligible community services sector for an eligible employer, you will likely be covered.
What if I work for more than one employer?
The portable scheme allows you to accrue long service leave across different registered employers in the sector. Your total service will be tracked through the central system.
Accruing leave
How is long service leave accrued under the scheme?
Leave is accrued based on the number of days worked in eligible employment. You will be entitled to long service leave after working a set number of days or years across participating employers.
Does my past service count?
Only service performed after 1 July 2025 will count toward portable long service leave. However, your employer remains responsible for any prior service under existing laws.
What happens if I take time off or leave the sector temporarily?
The scheme includes provisions to retain your accrued service for a period of 4 years even if you leave the sector. The Regulation also specifies ‘non-service days’ can extend this time period including time off for injury or illness.
Accessing leave
When can I access my long service leave?
You will be eligible once you meet the minimum threshold of 7 years of service credits. Workers who receive the Foundation Worker Bonus get a gift of 365 days of service, meaning they can access leave after only 6 years.
How do I apply for leave through the scheme?
You will be able to apply through LSC. Your employer will be notified, and leave can be taken in agreement with your employer’s operational needs.
Who pays me when I take long service leave?
If your leave is from the portable scheme, LSC will pay you directly. If your leave is under the Long Service Leave Act 1955 or an Enterprise Agreement, your employer will pay you.
Finding more information
Where can I find updates and official resources?
All information, forms, and updates will be posted on this website. Fact sheets and webinars will also be made available.
Subscribe to our CSI newsletter to receive updates on the new scheme and upcoming events.
Who can I contact if I have a question?
You can contact our customer service team by phone on 13 14 41 or submit an online enquiry.
Understanding the rules
Where can I read the regulations and legislation?
The Act and Regulation is published on the NSW Government’s legislation website and linked on this website.
What is the difference between this portable scheme and my regular long service leave?
Under the portable scheme, you continue to accrue leave even if you change jobs within the sector. Your current long service leave only applies if you stay with the same employer long enough to qualify.
Support from us
How is the Long Service Corporation supporting workers to understand the scheme?
The Corporation is creating a range of tools for workers, including:
- Easy-to-read fact sheets
- Online webinars
- Sector-specific examples
- A self-service portal to track your entitlements.
Subscribe to our CSI newsletter to receive updates on the scheme and upcoming events.
Will workers be contacted directly?
Yes. Registered workers will be able to log into a portal to view their service record. The Corporation will also run education campaigns to ensure workers understand their rights.
Can I talk to someone about my specific situation?
Yes. The Corporation’s customer service team can answer questions by phone, email or through an online contact form. Outreach officers may also be visiting your area as part of roadshows and community engagement.
Foundational worker bonus
What is the foundation workers bonus?
The foundation worker bonus is a one-off credit or incentive awarded to eligible workers who are in the scheme during its initial 6 month implementation phase (1 July to 31 December 2025). It recognises your early involvement in building long service entitlements for the sector.
Who is eligible for the foundation worker bonus?
All workers who are performing eligible community services work between 1 July 2025 and 31 December 2025 are eligible for the foundation worker bonus.
Workers included on service returns during this period will automatically have 365 days of service credited to their record.
Do I need to apply for the bonus?
In most cases, you will not need to apply. If your employer is registered and you are working in an eligible role, the bonus will be applied automatically to your service record. You may be contacted to confirm details.
What form will the bonus take - is it a payment or a credit?
The bonus will be applied as a credit of service days toward your long service leave entitlement, helping you reach eligibility faster.
When will the bonus be applied to my record?
The bonus will be added after your employer submits their first 2 quarterly returns. Workers should begin seeing their foundational bonus on their service record in the second half of 2026.
Will this affect any other entitlements I receive?
No. The bonus is not taxable income and does not impact other entitlements like annual leave or superannuation.
