The Andrews Labor Government is making things fairer for Wyndham locals working in security, contract cleaning and community services with the commencement of the Portable Long Service Benefits Scheme.

As of 1 July, any Victorian in these industries will be able to accrue long service entitlements and transfer them from job to job within the same industry.

The scheme returns fairness and security to workers in these sectors, who often perform the same work, in the same place, for many years, without being able to accrue long service.

A parliamentary committee found such instances were common across the cleaning, security and community services industries.

Victorian businesses have until 30 September to register for the scheme and from October, will be required to submit quarterly returns detailing days worked and pay received for their employees.

They will then pay a levy to the Portable Long Service Authority which will invest the funds and use them to pay workers when they claim long service.

Any new businesses in these industries has three months from establishment to register.

The authority, headquartered in Bendigo and employing more than 30 people, is responsible for administering the scheme and ensuring compliance.

For more information or to learn about the other industries – including early childhood and disability services – that will be eligible for the scheme from 1 January, 2020, visit plsa.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Thousands of Victorians have been missing out on long service entitlements through no fault of their own – we’re changing the system to give them a fair go.”

“We believe that if you work in the same place for seven years, doing the same work, you should get long service benefits – it’s just that simple.”

Quotes attributable to Portable Long Service Authority CEO Joseph Yeung

“It is fantastic that Victorians here in Bendigo have the opportunity to join the Authority and be part of this important reform.”