The AEU today welcomed the State Government’s move to recognise family violence as a workplace issue which, together with a public sector union campaign, means better support for many Tasmanian workers.
The Government’s new Ministerial Direction for the first time acknowledges that family violence is a workplace issue and allows access to personal leave to deal with issues associated with domestic violence.
“This is welcome and long overdue recognition that family violence is a serious workplace and industrial issue that should be of concern to all employers,” said Terry Polglase, AEU Tasmanian Branch President.
“Two in three women who are impacted by family violence are in paid employment and one in five workers has experienced a family violence-related incident occurring in the workplace.”
“The issue can no longer be swept under the carpet and this is a great first step in offering support to employees affected by family violence.”
Public sector unions, including the AEU, this week varied a number of public sector awards to include access to paid leave for family violence.
The AEU successfully sought amendments to the Award covering teachers in the K to 12 sector, TAFE and Support Staff to allow access to paid leave in order to deal with issues arising from family violence such as to:
• attend medical and counselling appointments
• attend court hearings
• access legal advice
• arrange child care, education or care services
Employees can also seek flexible work arrangements and can expect to be provided with access to an Employee Assistance Program for counselling support.
“Tasmanian educators now have greater flexibility and support to assist them in dealing with traumatic incidents which impact on their working lives,” said Mr Polglase.
“We welcome the State Government’s commitment and support of employees with this important social issue and look forward to progressing the rights of workers affected by family violence in future Enterprise Bargaining Agreements.”
Terry Polglase, AEU Tasmanian Branch President.
