A landmark reform to provide portable long service leave in industries where short-term contracts and movement between employers are common has achieved a major milestone, breaking through 200,000 registrations in little over 30 months.
More than 211,000 workers in the community services, contract cleaning and security sectors have joined the Victorian Portable Long Service Benefits Scheme since the scheme’s launch in 2019.
Previously, many workers weren’t eligible for the benefits of long service leave as they shifted from one short-term contract job to another. Some 2,600 employers now pay a levy to ensure their workers can retain their long service standing if they move to a new employer in the same industry.
Two out of three members of the scheme are women, who have long been over-represented in low-paid jobs with limited long-term security.
The same proportion of scheme members—140,000 employees—work in the community services sector in roles such as family violence prevention, disability support, accommodation services and home care, and in providing support for cultural and linguistically diverse communities.
Some 48,000 scheme members work in contract cleaning while 23,000 members are security workers.
Workers are eligible to claim their portable long service leave entitlement once they complete seven years of service after joining the scheme.
Portable long service leave doesn’t affect a worker’s right to traditional long service leave – the difference is that after joining the scheme, all service in the industry from that time will count towards their long service leave, even if it’s for different employers.
The Bendigo-based Portable Long Service Authority manages $150 million in funds accrued to pay worker portable long service benefits. Employer contributions of 1.65-1.80 per cent of a worker’s wage are invested by the Authority with the Victorian Funds Management Corporation.
Workers can get more information on portable long service leave by calling 1800 517 158, emailing enquiries@plsa.vic.gov.au or visiting plsa.vic.gov.au.
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
