A method of processing queued data packets in a packet data communication system includes allocating a tier of service for substantially each of a plurality of individual packet data queues and determining a total number of data packets that can use an available communication resource. A proportion of a total number of data packets is allocated to a number of the tiers of service to allow individual packet data queues on a number of tiers to share a communication resource. A communication resource is provided to queued packet data users on a tier-by-tier basis, such that the communication resource is made available to substantially all tiers. Such a technique is considerably easier to implement, it allows better control of resources when throughput rates vary on a per user basis. It is also more applicable when the when the number of allocated resource units per round is small compared to the total number of clients requiring service. Furthermore, the technique reduces the amount of processing required to transfer a number of data packets and is more flexible to changes in the overall number of users served changes.