Employees can’t be paid a loaded pay rate instead of annual, sick or carer’s leave.

They must be allowed to take paid leave, even if:

• the award or agreement provides otherwise
• the employee has been paid a loaded pay rate.

Are there any exceptions?

School-based apprentices and school-based trainees can be paid a loading instead of paid annual leave, paid personal/carers leave and paid absence on a public holiday, if their award or registered agreement allows it.

This includes school-based apprentices and school-based trainees in Queensland covered by the Queensland Apprentices and Trainees Order.