Lockouts

A lockout usually involves an employer attempting to force employees to accept conditions of employment, or other demands, before a return to work will be allowed. This can relate to the employee's existing contract or to new terms and conditions in a new contract.

Clients who are 'locked out' cannot receive the Jobseeker Support because they are still in full-time employment. However, they may qualify for an Emergency Benefit.

Sometimes employees who have been on strike are then 'locked out' by their employer when they try to return to work. In this situation, the earlier strike is regarded to have ended and replaced by a lockout.

You may consider paying an Emergency Benefit from the date the lockout commenced.

For more information see:

• Emergency Benefit Qualifications