Domestic violence victims to get the support they deserve in the workplace

Domestic violence victims to get the support they deserve in the workplace

Public sector workers, including casual employees, experiencing family and domestic violence will soon have access to 10 days of special leave entitlements, as well as specialised support at a time when they need it the most.

As Western Australia’s biggest employer, the State Government will lead the way by supporting employees who are victims of family and domestic violence to work flexibly, especially if they need to attend medical appointments or court hearings.

Keeping victims involved with their workplace is important not only for their safety but for their financial independence, longer term.

Nationally, one in four Australian women have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Western Australia has the second highest rate of reported physical and sexual violence perpetrated against women in Australia, second only to the Northern Territory.

“Every day in this State, the lives of people we know and love are being devastated by family and domestic violence. This is unacceptable,” said Premier Mark McGowan.

“At a critical time when victims need to feel safe and be supported, our public sector agencies will be able to offer a range of support including paid leave and counselling through existing workplace programs.

“We made a commitment during the election to put measures in place to support victims of family and domestic violence. We are delivering on our promises – this one being of utmost importance.”

Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Simone McGurk said, “we know women and children in our communities bear the brunt and the cost of family and domestic violence.

“We hope other Western Australian employers also consider the impact of family and domestic violence on their workforce, and think about what they can do to support the safety of victims as well as the productivity of their business.”