House debates
Tuesday, 1 December 2020
Statements by Members
Domestic and Family Violence
1:57 pm
Linda Burney (Barton, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Minister for Families and Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source
Labor will introduce into the parliament a private member's bill to provide 10 days paid domestic violence leave as a universal workplace right in the national employment standards. There must be cultural change around this issue in Australia. Family and domestic violence is the leading cause of death, disability and illness among women between 15 and 44 years of age. Income and financial capacity are key determinants of whether a woman is able to escape family or domestic violence. In leaving abuse or violence, women incur significant time and financial cost, including in potentially finding a new place to live, seeking legal support, receiving medical treatment or enrolling their children in a new school. No-one should have to make the choice between their own incapacity and their safety. This is why Labor is introducing a private member's bill.
KPMG estimates family violence against women and children cost the Australian economy a whopping $22 billion a year. Jim Stanford said paid domestic violence leave would reduce absenteeism and reduce turnover. Paid domestic violence leave will contribute to cultural and attitudinal change in this country. (Time expired)
Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source
I call the member for Berowra for about a minute.