You may get this allowance for carrying out duties usually performed by someone of a higher rank or position.
Eligibility
To get higher duties allowance (HDA) you must:
- be directed to perform duties at a higher rank or position for at least 5 consecutive days
- be capable of performing the duties
- be approved for higher duties allowance
- perform the duties as directed.
Your first payment will be calculated from the start date of your approved period of higher duties allowance.
When you're not eligible
You won't be eligible for the allowance if you're:
- undergoing training
- an Aviation Specialist paid under the Officer Aviation Specialist Structure
- an Airforce member in the Specialist Pathway or Specialist Stream in the Officer Aviation Pay Structure
- a statutory office holder.
There are some ranks that don't attract HDA. You won’t get HDA if you’re a:
| Your role... | Acting as a... |
|---|---|
| Seaman | Able Seaman |
| Private | Private Proficient |
| Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman | Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman |
| Acting Sub Lieutenant | Sub Lieutenant |
| Second Lieutenant | Lieutenant |
| Pilot Officer | Flying Officer |
You'll stop being eligible on the earlier of these dates:
- your approval to be paid higher duties ends
- you're directed to stop performing higher duties.
You'll also stop being eligible if you:
- get promoted
- go on leave for more than 2 months
- go on unpaid leave.
If you're directed to a new period of higher duties, a new approval is required.
Rates
For most members, your rate of HDA will be the lowest salary for the next highest rank (and equivalent) in the same pay grade minus your current salary.
For specific groups of members, your rate of HDA will be a different amount.
Apply for the allowance
You can only apply for the allowance if you're going to perform higher duties for at least 5 consecutive days.
Your Commanding Officer or Director will ask you to submit your application.
The way you apply depends on your circumstances, if you're in:
- SERCAT 6 or 7, you can apply using the PMKeyS Portal via My Pay
- SERCAT 3, 4 or 5, you’ll need to apply using the ADF Higher Duties - Direction and Payment Form (AD288).
You’ll also need to use the AD288 if:
- you're in OAPS
- you held an enlisted rank before becoming an officer and you’re paid under salary non-reduction
- you can’t access PMKeyS.
You can download the AD288 from the intranet Forms tab on the Defence Protected Network (DPN).
If you’re performing HDA in a statutory office holder role, contact Directorate of Senior Officer Management to find out how to apply.
If your HDA is any other category, you can apply using PMKeyS.
Your Commanding Officer or Director will review your application and approve the period of higher duties.