Sometimes an employer may ask you to take leave if they do not have work for you. This may be upsetting and is temporary. 

They are not taking your job away. They are asking you not to work until there is more work for you.  

It is legal for them to do so as long as you are not on annual leave or other personal leave. It is legal for them to do so if they follow the employment agreement, enterprise agreement or modern award.  

If you are stood down, and the employer is acting lawfully, you may choose to leave and give your resignation, and the employer must pay all the entitlements you have built up since working in this job.  

If you think you are being unlawfully treated, VALS may be able to assist, just call 1800 064 865. 

More information is available at JobWatch and the Fair Work Ombudsman website.