What Real Estate Employers Need to Know This Easter

Easter is just around the corner, and for many real estate agencies, it’s business as usual—even on the long weekend.

But if you’re operating in Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania or New South Wales and planning to have staff working this Easter Saturday (Easter Saturday is not applicable for Tasmania) or Easter Monday, there’s something important you need to remember:

Easter Saturday is a public holiday in Vic, NSW, and Qld, and Easter Monday applies to all four states (including Tas).

That means different pay rules apply, especially if your employees are covered by the Real Estate Industry Award 2020.

So, what does that mean for your business?

If you’ve rostered someone to work this Easter Saturday or Easter Monday, here’s a quick breakdown of what you must do.

Public Holiday = Penalty Rates

Under the Real Estate Industry Award, any employee working on Easter Saturday is entitled to:

- - 200% of their minimum hourly rate (that’s double time), and
  - A minimum 3-hour shift, even if they only work 1 or 2 hours.

This applies to all hours worked on the day—not just during “regular” business hours.

What about Time Off in Lieu?

You can offer your employee time off instead of extra pay, but it has to be:

- - Agreed to in writing before the shift takes place, and
  - Clearly documented (not just a verbal agreement).

This gives your team flexibility, but make sure it’s done properly to stay compliant.

Can an employee say no?

Yes, they can. Employees have the right to reasonably refuse to work on a public holiday—even if they’re rostered.
You need to consider both your business needs and their personal circumstances.

It’s important to respect the decision to decline the shift if the person has a valid reason (e.g., family commitments, personal health).

What should you do now?

- - Double-check if your team is working this Saturday
  - Confirm whether Easter Saturday is a public holiday in your state (it is if you’re in VIC, QLD or NSW)
  - Confirm whether Easter Saturday is a public holiday in your state (it is if you’re in VIC, QLD, TAS or NSW)
  - Make sure pays are set up correctly or TOIL agreements are in writing
  - Communicate clearly with your team so everyone’s on the same page.

Need Support?

If you’re unsure about how these obligations apply to your workplace or need assistance drafting written agreements or calculating penalty rates, Apex HR is here to help.

We specialise in award interpretation, compliance audits, and HR support tailored to Australia’s real estate industry.

Contact us today to ensure your Easter weekend operations are fully compliant and your people are paid correctly.