Update to Juniper’s Family and Domestic Violence leave policy  

In line with the Australian Government’s new legislation , Juniper staff can now access 10 days paid Family and Domestic Violence leave per year without deducting from their personal leave.  

All full-time, part-time, and casual employees who experience family and domestic violence will be entitled to 10 days paid leave in place of the previous entitlement of five days unpaid leave.  

As an impassioned not-for-profit organisation, Juniper has long been committed to the safety and wellbeing of its staff and has had a paid Family and Domestic Violence leave policy in place for the past five years. 

The new laws mean Juniper’s full-time, part-time and casual staff have access to 10 days (not pro-rated for part-time or casual employees) of paid Family and Domestic Violence leave in a 12-month period, which does not accumulate from year to year and renews on each work anniversary.  

As part of Juniper’s policy, taking family and domestic violence leave could include a staff member making arrangements for their safety, or the safety of a close relative (including relocation); attending court hearings, counselling or appointments with medical, financial or legal professionals; and accessing police services.  

All full-time and part-time staff can take paid Family and Domestic Violence leave at their full pay rate for the hours they would have worked if they were not on leave.  

Casual employees will be paid at their full pay rate for the hours they were rostered to work in the period they take leave. 

You can read full details of the updated leave policy here.  

At Juniper, we believe this is a positive step towards acknowledging the financial and emotional challenges faced by survivors of family and domestic violence, while also bringing attention to a harrowing social issue that needs to be addressed. 

If you have any questions, please speak with your line manager.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing family or domestic violence, 24/7 counselling support is available on 1800 RESPECT.

Mensline Australia provides 24/7 support for men and boys dealing with family and relationship difficulties on 1300 789 978.