Soldiers can now apply to keep unused Basic Recreation Leave (BRL) older than three years if they can prove they have been unable to take leave for service-related reasons.

The Directorate of Entitlements (DE) have recently amended the policy on the lapsing of unused BRL after three years in time to address leave that will lapse on July 1, 2002.

SO2 Personnel Policy DPers-A Maj David Gunning said the decision was made because the build-up of leave was becoming an issue for some members.

"With the high operational tempo apparent over recent years, we have found that some people in high-readiness units have been unable to take leave," he said.

Under the revised arrangements a CDF-authorised person may approve the deferral of leave credits beyond the three-year point if satisfied a member has been unable to take leave because of work commitments.

The delegate for Army is the DGPers-A Brig Mark Evans.

Leave that is not approved for carry over will be forfeited if not taken before the scheduled lapsing date.

Maj Gunning said the onus was on commanding officers to make sure their people were managed correctly and that leave was taken appropriately.

"The revised policy means people who are most involved with the high operational tempo of the ADF, including special-forces troops are not disadvantaged in any way."

Payment in lieu of leave on discharge will continue to be limited to that credited in the last three years of service, plus a pro-rata amount for the final year of service.

For further information see your orderly room, shopfront or one-stop shop or contact Maj Gunning at (02) 6265 6320.

By Pte Alisha Carr