Union win now in effect: Increased minimum break between shifts!
Tuesday 3 March, 2026
As of this week, all workers covered by HSU awards will see an increase in the minimum break between shifts from 8 hours to 10 hours. Union members won this improved right in last year’s pay and conditions negotiations.
Outside of work, the rest of our lives happen. Spending time with family & friends, picking the kids up from school, doing the groceries, cooking, participating in our communities, and getting enough rest to do it all again tomorrow.
This is a significant increase that makes sure members have enough time between shifts to get home, have genuine rest, and be ready for work the next day.
This Bulletin outlines the process for Union members to make an agreement to retain existing eight-hour breaks between shifts where this arrangement is beneficial to employees. Please see the section Seeking Union Consent for 8-Hour minimum Breaks.
If you have any questions about how these changes might affect you, please contact your local HSU organiser.
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