Life can be unpredictable, and it is at these times when an employee needs time away from work to mourn the loss of a loved one or even to assist a member of the family suffering from a terminal illness. It is an important workplace entitlement in Australia that allows employees to take time away from work during these heavy moments for either personal or emotional reasons.
Employees as well as employers must understand compassionate leave details, including who is eligible, what entitlements one can expect, and how to apply for it. This guide outlines compassionate leave in detail in Australia in 2025, leaving you with plenty of information to process when claiming this entitlement.
What is Compassionate Leave?
Compassionate leave is designed to support employees during times of personal distress, such as the death or life-threatening illness of a close family member or household member. This leave enables individuals to grieve, make funeral arrangements, or provide necessary care and support to their loved ones.
Who is Considered Immediate Family or Household?
Under Australian workplace laws, compassionate leave is available when an employee’s immediate family or household member passes away or is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness or injury. The following relationships qualify:
Spouse or de facto partner (including same-sex partners)
- Child, stepchild, or grandchild
- Parent, stepparent, or grandparent
- Sibling or stepsibling
- Any household member living with the employee
Employers may request documentation, such as a medical certificate or death notice, to confirm the need for compassionate leave.
Eligibility Criteria for Compassionate Leave in 2025
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel has achieved impressive figures at auctions:
| Grade | Auction Price | Date | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS66+ | $99,875 | 2021 | Legend Rare Coin Auctions |
These figures illustrate the coin’s potential value, especially in superior grades.
All employees in Australia—including full-time, part-time, and casual workers—are entitled to compassionate leave. However, the type of leave varies based on employment status:
A permissible occasion for taking compassionate leave arises when a member of the employee’s immediate family or household:
Passes away
- Develops a life-threatening illness or injury
- Experiences a miscarriage or stillbirth
How Much is Compassionate Leave Payment in 2025?
For full-time and part-time employees, compassionate leave is paid at the base rate of pay for the hours they would have worked during the leave period. However, casual employees are only entitled to unpaid leave.
Calculation of Payment:
- Base Rate of Pay × Number of Hours Scheduled to Work
- No additional allowances, bonuses, or penalties are included in this calculation.
- Payment is processed according to the employer’s regular payroll cycle.
- How to Apply for Compassionate Leave?
Applying for compassionate leave is a straightforward process, but employees must follow the correct steps to ensure approval:
- Notify Your Employer – Inform your employer as soon as possible about the need for leave, including the expected duration.
- Provide Supporting Evidence – If required, submit relevant documentation such as a medical certificate, death notice, or other official proof.
- Confirm Leave Arrangements – Work with your employer to finalize the leave period and any necessary adjustments.
Each workplace may have its own internal policies, so it’s a good idea to check with your HR department for specific requirements.
- Can Compassionate Leave Be Taken Intermittently?
- Yes, compassionate leave can be taken in different ways based on the situation and the employer’s policies:
- As a single continuous period (e.g., 2 consecutive days)
- In separate periods (e.g., 1 day at a time)
- Employees should discuss their needs with their employer to find a suitable arrangement.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Requesting Compassionate Leave
- Failing to Notify the Employer Promptly – Always inform your employer as soon as possible to avoid disruptions.
- Insufficient Evidence – If requested, provide the necessary documentation to support your leave request.
- Misunderstanding Entitlements – Know the difference between paid and unpaid leave based on your employment status.
Conclusion
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a fascinating piece of numismatic history, prized for its rarity and unique minting error. With only a limited number in existence, its value continues to rise, making it a highly sought-after coin among collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting your collection, finding one of these rare nickels could mean owning a small fortune. As demand for high-grade specimens increases, the potential for even higher auction prices remains strong. If you happen to come across one, verifying its authenticity through professional grading services is essential to ensure its true worth.
FAQs
1. Can I Take Compassionate Leave for a Close Friend?
A. Generally, compassionate leave is reserved for immediate family and household members. However, some employers may offer additional leave for other significant relationships at their discretion.
2. Does Compassionate Leave Accumulate Over Time?
A. No, compassionate leave does not accumulate. Employees are entitled to 2 days of compassionate leave for each permissible occasion as it arises.
3. Can I Take Additional Time Off Beyond the 2 Days?
A. If you need more than 2 days, you can discuss options with your employer, such as taking annual leave, personal leave, or unpaid leave.
4. Is Compassionate Leave Deducted from Annual Leave?
A. No, compassionate leave is a separate entitlement and is not deducted from your annual leave balance.
5. Can My Employer Deny My Request for Compassionate Leave?
A. Employers cannot refuse compassionate leave if the employee meets the eligibility criteria. However, they may request documentation to verify the leave’s necessity.