Legislation to provide up to 15-days paid family and domestic violence leave per year was introduced by the government to the Parliament yesterday afternoon in a huge state first.
“Paid family and domestic violence leave has been an issue identified by the government as a priority in several policy areas,” says Attorney-General, Kyam Maher.
“Providing paid family and domestic violence leave will play a role in addressing FDV, which has seen a significant increase during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The proposed amendments to the Fair Work Act 1994 will support workers by ensuring they can immediately access paid leave for reasons including attending medical appointments, legal proceedings, counselling, relocation, the making of safety arrangements and other activities associated with the experience of family and domestic violence.
The legislation will apply to all workers in the state industrial relations system which covers public sector and local government employees. South Australian private sector employees are covered by the Commonwealth Fair Work Act 2009 which was recently amended to include paid family and domestic violence leave.
As family and domestic violence disproportionately impacts women, the proposed changes also promote gender equity by addressing some of the socioeconomic impacts such as loss of income and employment security.
“People experiencing domestic violence should never need to make the choice between their financial security and independence, and their safety,” says Minister for Child Protection, Katrine Hildyard.
“When women experience domestic violence, their financial security and independence is an important part of their journey through recovery. This legislation will greatly assist in this journey.”
15-days of paid family and domestic violence leave will set a national benchmark.
