Family and domestic violence leave changes

Millions of Australians experience family or domestic violence every year.

When a person is living with family and domestic violence, they often experience heightened financial stress, homelessness, isolation and vulnerability.

Knowledge, awareness and planning can help employers support their employees, meet their workplace obligations and protect their workplaces.

An employer guide book is available for download from the Fairwork Ombudsman website.

It includes information on:

• the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman and how we can help;

• a checklist for managing family and domestic violence issues in the workplace;

• what family and domestic violence is and how it affects workplaces;

• employers' legal obligations;

• a suggested approach to supporting employees and developing a workplace response to family and domestic violence;

• support and referral services.

An employee’s paid leave entitlement (10 days of FDVL per year) is available in full immediately and resets on the employee’s work anniversary. It doesn’t accumulate from year to year.

This leave is part of the National Employment Standards (NES) which make up the minimum entitlements for employees in Australia. All employees in the national workplace relations system are covered by the NES. This is regardless of the award, registered agreement or employment contract that applies.

To find out more and to download the guide please visit the Fair Work Ombudsman website.