Suspension (Directive 16/20)
- Status:
- Superseded
- Effective:
- 25 September 2020–1 March 2023
- Responsible agency:
- Public Service Commission
- Superseded by:
- 06/23
Summary
This directive supports the Public Service Act 2008 (PS Act) requirements relating to suspension. Suspension is an administrative action, taken for administrative necessity. It is not disciplinary action and is not to be used as a form of punishment. Suspension should be used as a last resort after a decision maker considers all alternative duties prior to making the decision to suspend an employee.
This directive:
- outlines the procedures relating to suspension
- details the periodic reviews of suspension matters
- establishes natural justice considerations, including requirements about providing reasons for decisions about suspensions
- describes the circumstances in which a chief executive may decide a public service employee is not entitled to normal remuneration during their suspension
- details the circumstances in which an employee suspended without remuneration may be reimbursed for remuneration they do not receive during suspension after a determination on discipline penalty is made.
This directive has been updated to support the Review of public sector employment laws. The review was commissioned by the government to ensure Queenslanders have the most responsive, consistent and reliable public service possible.
What's new in this directive?
| What’s new? | Previous directive |
|---|---|
| Previous sections 137 and 189 replaced with an amended section 137 combining both aspects of suspension. | This is a new requirement of the legislation with no previous corresponding directive or framework for reviews. |
| New provision for reimbursement of suspension without pay where conditions met. | |
| Mandatory internal and external timeframe review periods built in for suspensions. |
Download the directive
Suspension (Directive 16/20) (PDF File, 1.0 MB)