Holidays Act changes promise flexibility for hospitality sector

The Restaurant Association welcomed the government’s announcement of next steps for reforming the Holidays Act.

Restaurant Association chief executive Marisa Bidois says the announcement is a significant step forward in addressing long-standing issues that have affected both employees and employers.

“This news will come as a relief to many of our members who were engaged in targeted consultation on these reforms, and were strongly in favour of the hours-based accrual system proposed,” says Marisa.

Marisa says the shift to an hours-based accrual system for sick and annual leave entitlements will provide greater flexibility within a simplified entitlement system, better reflecting the realities of modern-day employment relationships.

“One of the benefits of the hospitality industry is our ability to provide flexible working arrangements that work for both employers and employees, and these changes will better recognise work patterns that go beyond the standard 40-hour work week,” says Marisa.

The Restaurant Association says it looks forward to ensuring that the legislation to be introduced is fit for purpose, and to supporting the industry in a smooth transition to the new system.