Annual leave hacks: Turn 20 days of leave into 50+ days off work in 2022
Australians can more than double their time off work next year without exceeding their annual leave allowance, according to Finder.
Finder has taken a close look at the 2022 calendar to figure out how Aussies can maximise their annual leave and reap the benefits.
By booking leave days strategically, Australians can get 50 days or more of holiday time next year, no matter which state you live in.
Those living in the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria or Tasmania are the luckiest and can get the most days off next year (58).
This is followed by Western Australia, Northern Territory and South Australia with 55 days. Those living in Queensland can get 53 days, while those in New South Wales get the least (52).
Full-time employees in Australia are entitled to 20 days annual leave, but there is a way to book them that offers maximum potential.
Angus Kidman, Finder's editor-in-chief, said employees should book in their leave as early as possible.
"As Christmas and the New Year approaches, millions of savvy workers are already turning their attention to future holiday plans in 2022 and figuring out how to bank longer breaks.
"It's sneaky but totally above board – you just have to get in early as most employers can only allow a certain number of staff to be on holidays at any given time.
"A few carefully placed leave dates can give you up to a whopping 58 days off – that's about 16% of the year."
Finder data shows 49% of Australians are planning a holiday in the next 12 months. The majority (30%) plan to travel only within Australia.
While 1 in 10 (10%) plan to go internationally, a further 9% plan to holiday both within Australia and overseas in the coming year.
Kidman said Easter is a crucial time for maximising time off.
"With the combination of the 3 public holidays, workers can enjoy a 23-day holiday in April and May while only claiming 12 days annual leave.
"It's a good idea to plan your holidays in advance so you can make the most of your time off.
"Booking in advance also increases your chances of securing a good deal."
Want to make the most of your annual leave? Find out how you can turn 20 days of annual leave into up to 58 days off.
