I've been fired
Know your notice period, final pay, and redundancy rights when your employment is terminated.
What am I entitled to?
When your employment is terminated, you are entitled to: a minimum notice period (or payment in lieu), payment of any accrued annual leave and long service leave, a redundancy payment (if applicable), and your final pay within 7 days of termination. Your employer must provide you with a written notice of termination or payment instead of notice.
Notice periods under the NES
The minimum notice period depends on how long you've been employed: less than 1 year = 1 week, 1-3 years = 2 weeks, 3-5 years = 3 weeks, 5+ years = 4 weeks. If you're over 45 and have been employed for at least 2 years, you get an extra week. Your award or contract may provide a longer notice period.
Was it unfair dismissal?
A dismissal may be unfair if it was harsh, unjust, or unreasonable. You can apply to the Fair Work Commission for an unfair dismissal remedy within 21 days of the dismissal taking effect. To be eligible, you must have completed the minimum employment period: 6 months for businesses with 15+ employees, or 12 months for small businesses.
Redundancy pay
If you were made redundant (your job no longer exists), you may be entitled to redundancy pay based on your years of service — from 4 weeks' pay (1-2 years) up to 16 weeks' pay (9-10 years). Small businesses with fewer than 15 employees are exempt from NES redundancy pay requirements.
Final pay checklist
Your final pay should include: outstanding wages for hours worked, accrued annual leave (including leave loading if applicable), accrued or pro-rata long service leave, any notice period payment, redundancy pay (if applicable), and any other amounts owed under your award or agreement. Request an itemised pay slip for your final pay.
What to do next
1. Check your notice period and redundancy entitlements using our calculators. 2. Request a written statement of termination from your employer. 3. Check your final pay slip for accuracy. 4. If you believe your dismissal was unfair, contact the Fair Work Commission within 21 days. 5. Apply for JobSeeker Payment through Centrelink if needed.
Use these tools
Official resources
General information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.