What is Sabbatical Leave?
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What is a Sabbatical?
Sabbatical is an extended time away from work (leave) granted to an employee for varying purposes including personal reasons, professional and academic growth or rest and recovery. Many employees use this opportunity to take a career break, returning to the role after the end of leave period.
In Australia there is no statutory entitlement for sabbatical leave and is up to the employers to implement such a leave type.
Types of Sabbaticals
Personal: employees taking time off to rest or concentrate on mental wellbeing.
Medical: employees taking time off due to health reasons.
Paid: employers offering to pay employees a percentage of their pay whilst on leave.
Unpaid: employers are not required to pay employees whilst on a sabbatical so employees can take an unpaid sabbatical leave.
Generally, sabbatical leave is paid leave with employers either paying a percentage or the entire salary. However, it can also be unpaid.
Length of Sabbaticals
The length of a sabbatical is generally determined by the employers in accordance with company policies. The main aim of such time off is for employers to prevent employees from leaving the business completely or to encourage professional development.
Sabbatical Leave Policy
Whether you are a small or large business, implementing a sabbatical policy can be advantageous, as it can act as a reward for employees. It can also reduce employee turnover.
A sabbatical policy should outline:
Eligibility Criteria
Paid or Unpaid Options
How to Apply
Timeline
Duration
Response Process
Difference between Sabbatical and Long Service Leave
Sabbatical leave and long service leave are both types of extended leave granted above standard annual leave allowances. However sabbatical leave does not accrue on the employee’s time with the company.
Some employers grant sabbatical leave once the employee has been with the company for a certain period of time. However the amount of leave granted does not correspond to the length of their employment at the company.
Can an Employer Refuse Sabbatical Leave Request?
Yes. Sabbatical leave is not a statutory requirement.
Tip: It can be helpful to have a sabbatical leave policy in place highlighting employer right to refuse requests.