Planning Ahead for Your Christmas Shutdown & Leave Guide

Clear communication and proactive planning make the festive season smoother for everyone. From managing leave to keeping operations on track, ensure your team rests and recharges while your workplace stays organised.

For Employers: Plan and Communicate Early

Proactive planning and open communication are key to ensuring your Christmas shutdown runs smoothly.

🎄 Announce Shutdown Dates Early
Share shutdown dates well in advance—ideally a couple of months prior—so employees can make personal and professional arrangements accordingly.

🎄 Clarify Leave Deductions
Be transparent about how the shutdown will impact employees’ annual leave. Clearly outline whether annual leave will be deducted or if unpaid leave is an option during this period.

🎄 Set Notice Periods for Extended Leave
If employees wish to extend their break beyond the shutdown dates, establish a clear notice period for submitting requests. This ensures you can allocate workloads and maintain fairness in approvals.

For Employees: Prepare for Time Off

Employees can make the most of the Christmas shutdown with a little preparation and proactive communication.

🎄 Review Your Workplace’s Shutdown Policy
Familiarise yourself with how the shutdown affects your leave entitlements. Will annual leave be deducted automatically, or are alternative options, such as unpaid leave, available?

🎄 Submit Leave Requests on Time
If you plan to extend your holiday, make sure to lodge your leave request within the specified notice period. Timely submissions improve your chances of approval.

🎄 Check Your Leave Balance
Ensure you have enough accrued leave to cover the shutdown. If your balance is low, discuss potential options, such as unpaid leave or borrowing future leave, with your HR department.

Collaborate for Smooth Operations

🎄 Essential Staff Considerations
Some roles may require coverage during the shutdown. Employers can acknowledge the efforts of these employees with special compensation, such as additional pay, time off in lieu, or a team celebration to show appreciation.

🎄 Flexibility for Low Leave Balances
Where possible, offer options for employees with low leave balances. These could include unpaid leave or arrangements to borrow leave from the next entitlement cycle. Providing flexibility fosters goodwill and fairness.

Benefits of Clear Planning and Communication

When both employers and employees collaborate effectively, the Christmas shutdown becomes a valuable period of rest and reflection. Employers gain a refreshed workforce ready for the year ahead, and employees enjoy the chance to relax, recharge, and spend quality time with loved ones.

With a little planning and an open dialogue, the festive season can be a joyful and stress-free experience for all. Wishing you a safe, happy, and well-managed Christmas break! 🎄✨