At Hireup, we encourage our support workers to take regular breaks. We want to ensure we’re supporting the wellbeing of our workers, and part of this is making sure you know what entitlements are available to you. One of these entitlements is taking breaks.
According to the SCHADS award, support workers are entitled to a paid 10 minute tea break for every four hours worked. And an unpaid meal break of 30 - 60 minutes (no less) when working in excess of five hours.
When a support worker has a meal with the person they’re supporting as part of the shift, they will be paid for the duration of the meal at the ordinary rate of pay.
It’s important to communicate with the person you’re supporting and/or their account manager to discuss an agreed time when it is convenient to take these breaks.