NAIDOC week celebrations will be held in 2023 from 2-9 July.

As members would be aware NAIDOC week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

During NAIDOC week local government employees who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander are entitled to an additional day of paid leave.

Local Government (State) Award 2020
Clause 21. Holidays
A. GENERAL
(ii) In addition to subclause (i), employees who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders shall be entitled to one day during NAIDOC week so that they can participate in National Aboriginal and Islander Day celebrations. Eligible employees shall provide the employer with at least seven (7) days’ notice of their intention to take the holiday in accordance with this subclause, provided that if less than seven (7) days’ notice is given such leave shall not be unreasonably refused.

Are you entitled to a day off?
To be entitled to this leave you must identify as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person, and provide your employer with at least 7 days notice of your intention to take leave, or a lesser amount of notice in some circumstances.

This year the USU recommends that you notify your employer of your intention to take leave by no later than 23rd of June 2023.

If you have any questions about an entitlement to leave during NAIDOC week, or any other entitlements under the Local Government (State) Award 2020 please don’t hesitate to contact your local USU Organiser or the USU head office on 1300 136 604.

For more information visit: www.naidoc.org.au