DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LEAVE

The Liberals’ have finally listened to Labor’s persistent calls to bring on their bill for 5 days unpaid domestic violence leave for debate in the parliament. 

Following Labor’s call yesterday for the government to give priority to this bill, the Liberals have altered the schedule for the House of Representatives, and have listed it - however we note that it is last on the notice paper.

 

We further call on the government to amend the bill, to adopt Labor’s commitment to 10 days paid leave.

 

Almost twelve months ago, Labor committed to introducing 10 days paid domestic violence leave into the National Employment Standards if a Shorten Labor Government is elected.

 

Nothing less will suffice.

The combined stress of finding safe accommodation, seeking legal advice, accessing counselling services and medical treatment should not be compounded by the fear of losing your job or the financial disadvantage of going without pay.

No one should have to choose between their safety and their income.

Labor has listened to victims, frontline workers, businesses, unions and organisations that deal daily with domestic violence. Their clear message is that people who have experienced domestic violence need more support in the workplace.

State governments and many private sector employers already provide paid family violence leave, including Carlton & United Brewery, IKEA, NAB, Qantas, Telstra, Virgin Australia. These employers, and many others, have paved the way and helped reduce the stigma that often accompanies domestic violence. So too have Australia’s unions, campaigning for paid domestic and family violence leave over many years which has led to subsequent coverage in Australian workplaces. 

 

The complexity of family violence requires a strategic approach by all levels of government, business, and the community.