Hi Casper, yes, this is correct. It used to be called an exit permit, but then to make it seem less harsh in a human rights discussion, they changed it to a 'business leave notification'. If QR rejects it, then there is a tribunal to go to where the company has to submit proof and evidence as to why you can't leave. I've not heard anyone getting rejected by the company thus far unless they were in some legal challenge with the company - but yes, in a nutshell, you have to have your employers permission to leave the country. This does not apply to spouses and children however. QR are pretty good, you apply for the permit at the same as your leave and you usually get it the day before you plan to exit. One benefit that no other company has is there is a desk manned 24/7 at the airport should you need one in an emergency, you can just stop there to apply and get immediate approval.
Its an odd restriction and one that I took some time to know if I can accept it but its just part of living here.