What is Paid Domestic and Family Violence Leave?
“Sustained periods of employment can provide financial security, independence, social networks and increased self-esteem” (Australian Council of Trade Unions, 2016 as cited in ANROWS, 2019b, p. 1).
Since 1 February 2023, (1 August 2023 in the case of small businesses) every employee in Australia is entitled to 10 days of Domestic and Family Violence Leave at their usual rate of pay across a 12-month period, allowing them to access support and assistance during work hours, as well as attending court or organising relocation.
Employers may ask for evidence of the need to take time off for such purposes but family and domestic violence leave will not be mentioned on pay slips.
It is hoped that this initiative will offer a “protective factor” for victims particularly vulnerable to “enduring economic stress” (ANROWS, 2022a).
Why is it important?
In a recent study using data from the Personal Safety Survey, of the 30% of women who had unsuccessfully attempted to leave a violent relationship, 15% had been forced to return for financial reasons. (Summers, 2022, pp. 9–10)*
Another recent report by ANROWS found that economic or financial abuse had featured in 27.4% of relationships resulting in the death of a female victim at the hands of a male primary domestic violence abuser. (Australian Domestic and Family Violence Death Review Network & ANROWS, 2022, p. 55).”
If domestic violence leave can reduce the economic disadvantage that drives victims to return to their perpetrators, it’s no exaggeration to say that it could save lives.
If you or someone you know wish to discuss this issue further, then please do not hesitate to contact us on 02 8999 9809.
*Anne Summers, The Choice: Violence or Poverty