As part of the Fair Work Commission’s four-yearly review of modern awards, the ACTU (Peak Union Body) is seeking to introduce an across-the-board entitlement to 10 days a year of paid family and domestic violence leave.
The application has been lodged, with the ACTU seeking the 10-day paid entitlement for permanent employees, and a 10-day unpaid entitlement for casual employees.
Part of the rationale for the claim is that it gives employees the opportunity to use the leave to seek legal advice relating to their situation, to attend court and related appointments or to making new living arrangements.
In addition, Unions also want the FWC to extend the scope of the right to request flexible work (under s65 of the Fair Work Act) to employees experiencing domestic violence. It is also seeking to specify processes for supporting employees and ensuring applications for leave are properly handled ie. with confidentiality and expeditiously.
These proposed changes, along with the claim for casual employees to have the right to become permanent employees, remain only claims at the present time. If there are any updates or mandates we here at HR Central will notify you.