Today’s Royal Commission into Family Violence report has importantly recognised the workplace and the role that employers must have in supporting those affected by domestic and family violence.
The Commission’s acknowledgement of amendments to the national employment standards and all modern awards to guarantee that employees have access to dedicated family violence leave is key. With the Victorian Government ensuring that family violence leave is in all public sector enterprise agreements, they have set a standard for the rest of the public sector, and private companies to follow. Ensuring that leave entitlements are accompanied by access to referral services and training for managers to support workers affected by family violence, is particularly important within this complex issue.
Quotes attributable to ACTU President Ged Kearney:
“Offering paid domestic violence leave is the right thing to do. We all have a role in supporting those affected by domestic violence and this is how employers can show that support.”
“The Royal Commission’s report acknowledges that those who fear for their or their family’s safety should not have to worry about losing their job if they need to attend court or access community support.”
“Australian unions call on all employer groups to recognise today’s Royal Commission report and support paid domestic violence leave and embrace the positive role of the workplace in supporting employees who are experiencing domestic violence leave.”
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