Domestic violence leave welcomed but calls for following the New Zealand model



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Australian workers now have access to unpaid leave for domestic violence, a change that will help victims and their families more.

Earlier this year, the Fair Work Commission decided to update the new domestic and family violence leave provision

As of the first full pay period on or after August 1, 2018, workers can take up to five days of unpaid leave to take care of family affairs without fear of losing their lives.

Changes take effect less than a week after New Zealand pbaded a law granting victims of domestic violence 10 days of paid leave – a world first

Domestic violence NSW on Wednesday hailed the move of the Fair Work Commission a step in the right direction.

"This sends a very clear message that employers have a responsibility in this space but also more broadly than it is something that Australia cares about, it's absolutely a step" Ms. Moo Baulch, General Manager of DV NSW

But Ms. Baulch would like Fair Work to follow the example of the New Zealand Parliament and introduce paid holidays, victims of domestic violence.

"Often, what women most need, it's financial certainty to keep their jobs, pay their bills, feed their children before going to school and unfortunately for some women this will not give them no more "One in six (1.6 million) women in Australia has been physically and / or badually abused by a partner she has been living with since the age of 15," Baulch told SBS News.

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According to the latest figures from the Australian Institute of Health and well-being, 72,000 women, 34,000 children and 9,000 men sought homelessness in 2016-17 due to domestic / domestic violence. a pre-budget proposal that the Fair Work Act establishes a minimum of 10 days of spousal and family violence in recognition of the "disruption caused by this violence" and ensures that victims remain in the labor market.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In case of emergency, call 000.

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