Paid Domestic Violence Leave
As part of the 4 yearly review of the modern awards the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) has only 2 days ago made an application to the Fair Work Commission for variations to all modern awards for the inclusion of Paid Domestic Violence leave.
They are requesting 10 days paid leave for permanent employees and 10 days unpaid leave for casual employees for the purpose of attending court appearances, related appointments, seek legal advice and make re-location arrangements.
They also request the right to request flexible working arrangements such as variations to working hours or location.
Other elements to their claim include involve processes and procedures around evidence, notice requirements, appointment of a workplace contact for employees, ensuring confidentiality and ensuring adequate training for the contact person. Their view is that it is designed to assist victims of domestic violence to remain in paid employment, support them through the process of escaping violence and to promote a safe and secure environment for all employees in the workplace.
The paid leave recognises that employees experiencing domestic violence can least afford to take unpaid leave at such time.
They stated as part of their submission that:
- Two thirds of the over 400,000 who experience domestic violence are in paid employment.
- Stalking is one of the risk factors that can lead to the victim being killed
- Employment is a key pathway for women leaving a violent relationship
- Over 1.6 million employees now have access to paid domestic leave negotiated in workplace agreements or in some state awards
We will keep let you know of the outcome.