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Family Violence: Impacts on Employees

Wellbeing Campus

Family violence is a pervasive social issue that can have far-reaching consequences for survivors of family vionelce, their family, and even their workplace. You may not be aware of it, but a lot of people around you are impacted by family violence - witness, survivor, perpetrator. The effects of family violence are not limited to the home, people who experience family violence can’t leave what’s happening to them at the door, it can impact all aspects of a person’s life - including work.

In this blog post, we will discuss the impact of family violence in the workplace and how paid family violence leave is helping to address this issue in Victoria.

The Impact of Family Violence in the Workplace

Family violence is a form of domestic abuse that involves the use of physical, psychological, emotional or financial force to control and intimidate a family member. The impact of family violence can be significant and long-lasting, affecting the victim's physical and mental health, their relationships with others, and their ability to perform daily tasks. One area where the impact of family violence is often overlooked is in the workplace.

Employees who are experiencing family violence may find it challenging to concentrate on their work, leading to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism. Survivors of family violence may also experience episodes of anxiousness, depression, and emotionally drained, which can negatively impact their relationships with colleagues and supervisors.

The impact of family violence in the workplace is not limited to survivors. Co-workers and supervisors may also experience the effects of family violence in the workplace. Witnessing family violence or hearing about it can cause emotional distress and vicarious trauma. Furthermore, co-workers and supervisors may also feel ill-equipped to support colleagues who are experiencing family violence, leading to feelings of helplessness and frustration.

Paid Family Violence Leave in Victoria

To address issues surrounding family violence special leave has been introduced whereby, all employees are entitled to 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave each year. This includes full-time, part-time and casual employees. Paid family violence leave allows employees who are experiencing family violence to take time off from work without losing their pay. This policy aims to provide support and financial stability for survivors of family violence, enabling them to seek help, attend court hearings or medical appointments, and make necessary arrangements to ensure their safety.

In Victoria, the introduction of paid family violence leave is part of the broader reforms aimed at addressing family violence. In 2018, Victoria became the first state in Australia to introduce legislation requiring employers to provide paid family violence leave to their employees. Under the legislation, employees who are experiencing family violence can access up to 10 days of paid leave per year.

The introduction of paid family violence leave has been positively received by both employers and employees in Victoria. According to a study conducted by the Victorian Council of Social Service, 82% of employees surveyed who had accessed paid family violence leave reported that it had a positive impact on their ability to deal with the effects of family violence. Additionally, 91% of employers surveyed reported that they had seen no negative impact on their business operations as a result of providing paid family violence leave.

Benefits of Paid Family Violence Leave

Paid family violence leave can have numerous benefits for both employees and employers. For employees, paid family violence leave provides financial stability and support during a challenging time, allowing them to take time off from work to address the effects of family violence, such as secure housing, legal matters, attend court etc. The provision of paid family violence leave also sends a message of support to survivors of family violence, demonstrating that their employer is committed to supporting their wellbeing.

For employers, paid family violence leave can be a lifeline, it’s difficult to manage and navigate systems let alone in a time of crisis. Allowing staff to take leave, can provide time for survivors to ensure their safety and that of their children. It can also lead to increased employee loyalty, decreased absenteeism and turnover rates, and increased productivity. By providing support to employees experiencing family violence, employers demonstrate that they are committed to promoting a safe and that they are committed to promoting a safe and inclusive workplace culture that values the wellbeing of all employees.

If you or someone you know may be impacted by family violence below is a list of family violence specific support services in Victoria:

1800RESPECT

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - Learn more

1800 737 732

Safe Steps

Victoria’s 24/7 family violence response centre for confidential crisis support, information and accommodation.

The Orange Door

The Orange Door provides help and support for family violence, as well to as families in need of support with the wellbeing and development of children.

Sexual Assault Crisis Line

Crisis counselling service for people who have experienced both past and recent sexual assault.

Men's Referral Service

Free, confidential expert support for people at risk of using family violence.

Victims of Crime Helpline

Information and support for adult male victims of family violence and victims of violent crime.

Child protection

To report children and young people whose safety is at risk.

Kids Helpline

Private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.

Rainbow Door

Rainbow Door provides free specialist advice to LGBTIQ+ people and their friends and families.

InTouch - Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence

Free and confidential support services for migrant and refugee women.

Seniors Rights Victoria

Free and confidential support services to support older Victorians experiencing abuse.

MensLine Australia

Telephone and online counselling service for men with emotional health and relationship concerns.

Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA)

Statewide support service for Aboriginal children and families