Full-time and part-time workers in NSW who are unable to work because of illness or injury are entitled to have time off without losing any pay.

Paid sick leave is an entitlement under most NSW awards and enterprise agreements.

How much sick leave am I entitled to?

Check your award or agreement to find out how much sick leave you are entitled to.

Most awards provide for at least five days in the first year and eight days in the second and subsequent years. Untaken sick leave can usually be carried forward for several years.

How long do I have to work for my employer until I qualify for sick leave?

Some awards provide for a 'qualifying period' for sick leave in the first year of employment. This is usually up to three months. Your sick leave may be withheld until after the qualifying period.

If you work part-time, you will have a pro-rata (or proportional) entitlement to sick leave, depending on the number of hours you work.

Casual workers are not entitled to paid sick leave.

Can I use sick leave to care for a family member?

Yes, you can use paid sick leave to care for a family or household member if there is an unexpected emergency or if a family or household member is ill.

See the Parents and Carers section of this website for more information.