DV leave reviewed
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A review has found Australia’s paid family and domestic violence leave scheme is effective but needs broader awareness and stronger support.
A review of the Fair Work Amendment (Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave) Act 2022, led by experts from Flinders University, has examined how the paid leave entitlements have operated during their first year and offered key recommendations to boost their use.
The Act, in effect since February 2023, gives employees under the Fair Work Act 10 days of paid FDV leave annually.
The review found that 91 per cent of workers who used the leave said it helped them maintain their income, and 89 per cent said it helped them stay employed.
These results show the Act is helping people access safety and services without risking their financial security or jobs.
The review team, which included experts in law, criminology, and social impact, made five recommendations to improve the uptake of FDV leave and support employers and employees.
The review suggests continuous evaluation and consultation with stakeholders to ensure future reforms are guided by evidence and feedback.
It also says government resources need updating, especially for small businesses, to clarify evidentiary and confidentiality requirements, and better support casual workers.
It calls on unions and business groups to keep raising awareness and report progress to the government, identifying barriers to the entitlement.
Additionally, the reviewers found that focus should be on reaching vulnerable workers, including casuals, First Nations people, culturally diverse (CALD) workers, LGBTQIA+ employees, and those in remote areas or with disabilities.
The experts also say awareness of FDV leave should be tied to broader community efforts to address FDV and gender inequality, with training for first responders and support for workplace strategies.
Despite its benefits, the review found low awareness about FDV leave among both employers and workers, especially casual employees. Many are unaware they can use the leave, and stigma around FDV may prevent some from coming forward.
Flinders University’s Professor Marinella Marmo stressed that “FDV is closely connected to women’s employment and economic security as well as workplace culture and equity more broadly”.
Small businesses, often with limited human resources, also face challenges in managing the leave. While some employers worry about misuse, cases have been rare, according to the review.
The report highlights a growing recognition in Australia that FDV is not just a social issue but an economic and workplace one. This shift is important for promoting gender equality and making workplaces safer for victim-survivors.
The Act especially supports women, who are disproportionately affected by FDV. The 2021-22 Australian Bureau of Statistics survey shows one in four Australian women has experienced intimate partner violence, compared to one in 14 men.
But the success of this reform depends on ongoing education, employer engagement, and stronger community support.
The findings have been presented to the Australian Parliament.
Anyone experiencing family and domestic violence should call 000 for emergency help. For counselling and support, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).