Australia offers paid leave scheme to combat family and domestic violence

From February 1, seven million Australian employees will have access to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave under changes made by the Albanese government. This new measure applies to employees at large and medium-sized businesses, including casual employees.

The purpose of this measure is to support employees, mostly women, who are facing violent relationships. Tony Burke, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, declared that this measure was “long overdue”, and that employees should never have to choose between their safety and income.

“Paid family and domestic violence leave is a workplace entitlement that will save lives,” Burke said. “The measure will allow victims of family violence to take time off work without losing income and their jobs.”

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Small businesses have until 1 August 2023 to comply with the change, after which millions more employees will be able to access the entitlement.

Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services, emphasised the important role employers can play in ending family, domestic, and sexual violence. “The connection with work, the payment of wages, is really important in keeping stability in the lives of those experiencing violence when they are attempting to leave a domestic violence situation,” she said.