Notice Period Calculator
Calculate the minimum notice period for termination of employment under the Fair Work Act.
Employees over 45 with 2+ years of service get an extra week of notice
To calculate payment in lieu of notice
How It Works
The calculator determines the minimum notice period weeks based on the NES scale: 1 week (under 1 year), 2 weeks (1-3 years), 3 weeks (3-5 years), or 4 weeks (5+ years). If the employee is over 45 with at least 2 years of service, 1 additional week is added. The payment in lieu amount is calculated by multiplying the weekly pay by the number of notice weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum notice period in Australia?
Under the Fair Work Act NES: up to 1 year of service = 1 week notice, 1-3 years = 2 weeks, 3-5 years = 3 weeks, 5+ years = 4 weeks. Add 1 extra week if the employee is over 45 and has completed at least 2 years of service.
Does the employer have to let me work through the notice period?
No. The employer can choose to pay you in lieu of notice — they pay you for the notice period but your employment ends immediately. They can also direct you to use annual leave during the notice period (with certain restrictions).
What if my award or contract specifies a longer notice period?
The NES sets the minimum. Your award, enterprise agreement, or employment contract may provide a longer notice period. The more generous entitlement applies. Some senior roles have 3-6 month notice periods by contract.
Do casual employees get notice?
No. Casual employees are not entitled to notice of termination under the NES. However, an employer must not terminate a casual employee for an unlawful reason (e.g. discrimination, exercising a workplace right).
Related Calculators
Redundancy Pay Calculator
Calculate your minimum redundancy pay entitlement based on years of continuous service.
Annual Leave Calculator
Calculate accrued annual leave based on your employment period, hours, and leave loading.
Long Service Leave Calculator
Calculate your long service leave entitlement by state, years of service, and pay rate.
Work Hours Calculator
Calculate daily, weekly, and annual work hours based on your start time, end time, and breaks.