All workers will now be entitled to sick leave from day one of employment under a major change to workplace entitlements. The new rule removes the previous waiting period that required employees to complete a set amount of service before accessing paid sick leave, meaning staff can take leave for illness from the moment they start a job. The policy aims to provide immediate protection for workers who fall ill and to reduce the pressure to attend work while unwell, which can spread illness and affect productivity.
Employers will need to update contracts and payroll systems to reflect the change and ensure that new hires are aware of their rights from their first day. The entitlement applies across sectors and covers full-time, part-time, and other eligible workers, giving consistent access regardless of how long someone has been with a company.
Authorities say the shift supports public health and workplace safety by encouraging people to stay home when sick without fear of losing income. The change also aligns sick leave with other day-one protections and simplifies onboarding for both employers and employees. Compliance monitoring will form part of standard employment oversight, and businesses are being urged to review their policies to meet the new requirement.
