The ACTU is seeking paid domestic violence leave on behalf of all Award employees.

Each week, one woman dies as a result of domestic violence in Australia.

ABS figures show that two thirds of the 400,000 plus people (mostly women) who experience domestic violence each year are workers.

Employment and financial stability is critical to escaping a violent and abusive relationship.

Paid domestic violence leave recognises that workers experiencing domestic violence have often exhausted their personal leave entitlements, and can least afford to take unpaid leave at a time when financial security is critical.

WORKING TOGETHER

Domestic violence is an issue which can have a significant impact on our members at work, and needs to be taken seriously by all members of our community, including employers.

Unions, including the SDA, and employers have negotiated over 500 workplace agreements which provide domestic violence leave. As a result of this, more than 1.6 million employees currently have access to paid domestic violence leave across a wide range of industries.

EXTENDING THESE PROVISIONS

The ACTU wants to extend this entitlement to all employees, and has lodged a claim in the Fair Work Commission for a clause to be included in all Awards.

The ACTU claim:

  • Will directly benefit more than six million workers;
  • Provides for 10 days paid domestic violence leave for workers to attend court appearances, medical and legal appointments and make safety and re-location arrangements;
  • Allows employees to request a change in working arrangements, such as start and finish times and other safety measures such as changing work email and phone

Some employers have made technical objections to the ACTU clause, which must be dealt with by the Fair Work Commission before the merit of the case can be argued.

The SDA will keep you informed of progress on this matter.

If you are experiencing or know of someone in your workplace who may be experiencing domestic violence contact the SDA. We can help!

If you would like more information please visit the Domestic Violence page in members section of the website.