Does your workplace shut down over the Christmas Holidays? As we approach the festive season, it’s time to plan ahead for a smooth transition into the New Year.
Use this checklist to help make sure you’ve got your bases covered:
Skeleton Staffing
Many workplaces will shut down around Christmas and New Year’s but some require continuous staffing, such as medical and aged care facilities. To prepare:
✅ Finalise staff rosters including any extra arrangements needed for contract workers.
✅ Clarify accountabilities including who will have building access.
✅ Provide updated emergency contact information.
✅ Plan ahead for any financial transactions or admin procedures that may be needed during the shutdown period.
Review Your Employment Obligations
✅ Employers are required to pay employees their usual wages during Christmas/New Year’s shutdown unless their award or agreement says otherwise.
✅ Review your obligations regarding pay rates and entitlements over public holidays. Your award or enterprise agreement will outline what employees should be paid when working on a public holiday. A reminder that when New Year’s Day or Christmas Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday the next following Monday is also a public holiday. When Boxing Day falls on a Saturday the next following Monday is also a public holiday, and when Boxing Day falls on a Sunday or Monday the next following Tuesday is also a public holiday.
✅ For employees who have accumulated leave, check your award or agreement to see if you are allowed to request them to take their leave during the shutdown period.
✅ Ensure you have a COVIDsafe plan in place.
✅ Review our compliance checklist for employers.
Protect Your Assets
✅ Make sure your IT systems are backed up and secure including functioning generators.
✅ Turn off any equipment that won’t be needed.
✅ For equipment that will be needed, ensure that it has been serviced and power supply is backed up.
✅ Check all security and emergency procedures.
The down time after Christmas is a great opportunity to review your workplace practices. This is important to ensure that you are meeting your employment obligations, preventing risks and operating smoothly into the new year.
For more information, please contact us today.
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