Paid Domestic Violence Leave commences for small employers from 1 August 2023.

Small business employers (employers with less than 15 employees) from 1 August 2023 are required to provide Paid Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) leave, as outlined in the National Employment Standards. Employers with more than 15 employees have been obligated to provide this benefit since February 1, 2023.

Family and domestic violence can profoundly impact individuals and their families. Unsurprisingly, some employees may experience violence or abuse, which constitutes FDV that may affect their attendance or performance at work, and they may need to take time away from the workplace.

From 1 August 2023, all employers, irrespective of the size of their business, will be required to provide all employees (full-time, part-time and casual employees) with access to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave per annum. The full entitlement is available from their first day of work, and the balance resets on the employee’s work anniversary.  Leave which is not used does not accrue; the entitlement is to a maximum of 10 days per year.

Family and domestic violence means violent, threatening or other abusive behaviour by certain individuals known to the employee that both:

• Seeks to coerce or control the employee
• Causes them harm or fear.

The individual could be:

• An employee close relative
• A member of the employee’s household, or
• A current or former intimate partner of an employee.

As your trusted HR consultants, we are here to guide you through these changes and help you navigate the updated requirements seamlessly.

• Extended leave entitlement: Eligible employees have access to an increased allocation of paid leave to address family and domestic violence matters.
• Compliance requirements: We will assist you in understanding the updated compliance obligations associated with the new obligations. This includes your obligations as an employer and also your employee’s obligations in seeking to access the paid leave. Our team of experts will help you update your HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the new requirements.
• Communication and training: We can provide comprehensive guidance on effectively communicating the changes to your employees. Our training programs will equip your management team with the necessary skills to handle sensitive situations empathetically and professionally.

Our dedicated HR consultants are available to address any questions or concerns regarding your obligations to provide paid domestic and family violence leave.  For more information, please speak to your usual HR Consultant or phone 1300 200 725.

Published: 19/07/2023

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