For many years, unions including the SDA have been campaigning for family and domestic violence leave to be included in Modern Awards. 

From 1 August this year new unpaid family and violence leave entitlements will be introduced to all Modern Awards. 

This is a direct result of our case in the Fair Work Commission calling for leave for workers who experience violent, threatening or other abusive behaviour by a family member. 

What are the new family and domestic leave entitlements? 

• All employees covered by a Modern Award can access 5 days family and domestic violence leave per year. 

• This leave applies for full-time, part-time and casual employees. 

• 5 days unpaid leave will be available in full on commencement of employment and at the start of each year after that (it will not accrue from year to year).

The new unpaid leave is a crucial first step towards helping workers experiencing domestic violence with the employment security they need to leave an abusive or violent situation. 

Paid family and domestic violence leave

The SDA continues to bargain for paid family and domestic violence leave to be included in every new Agreement we negotiate. 

We also support the ongoing campaign for 10 days paid leave in the National Employment Standards (NES), which will provide paid leave for all workers. 

While unpaid leave is an important outcome for workers, we know that both employment and financial security is essential. 

The cost and time of attending court appointments, finding a new place to live, relocating and setting up a new home are extensive.

That’s why the SDA continues to argue for paid family and domestic violence leave. 

If you have any questions, please call the SDA on 131 732.