From 1 October 2025, eligible workers in the state’s Community Services sector will start accruing long service leave entitlements. These entitlements will travel with them when they move from one employer to another within the sector.
The scheme is the culmination of the SA Labor Party’s election commitments over time, the advocacy of SACOSS and the relevant unions. The scheme introduces new reporting and compliance requirements and transfers long service leave liabilities to the scheme moving forward.
The release of the regulations and the confirmation of the 2.2% levy rate are the signal for employers in the sector to make financial, operational, and administrative preparations now.
What employers need to know
All employers who fall within the scope of the scheme will be required to:
Submit the first quarterly return on eligible employees by 21 January 2026
The Portable Long Service Leave Scheme has a range of resources to help employers understand and meet their responsibilities.
We encourage members to visit https://saplsl-community.org.au/about-us/resources
for:
Planning ahead
We understand that changes like these can raise questions. That’s why the South Australian Business Chamber will continue to work with the scheme’s administrators to support members through the transition. Look out here for details on a joint Chamber and Community Services PLSL Webinar, coming soon.
We encourage employers to use the time between now and 1 October 2025 to review their systems, understand their obligations, and seek advice where needed.
If you have any questions, please contact the Chamber’s Business Advice Hotline on 83000000.
