From www.abc.net.au: The expansion of Canberra’s portable long service leave scheme, initially set to begin on April 1, has been delayed for 15 months due to concerns from local businesses facing financial difficulties amid the cost-of-living crisis.

The scheme, which allows casual and insecure workers in industries like hospitality and beauty to access long service leave, aims to provide benefits similar to those in more stable employment situations.

Business leaders and unions have expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting the delay as necessary for economic stability, while others advocate for the scheme as a modern recognition of workforce mobility.