ACT Introduces New Leave Entitlements for Workers in Key Industries

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government has introduced a new leave policy aimed at enhancing the rights and protections of workers in the building and construction, community sector, security and services industries. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a more supportive and fair working environment for employees in these critical sectors.

Key Features of the New Leave Policy

1. Purpose and Scope:

The new leave policy is designed to provide workers with the necessary time off to manage personal and family matters without the fear of job loss or financial hardship. It covers a range of leave types, including personal/carer’s leave, compassionate leave and unpaid family and domestic violence leave.

2. Eligibility:

The policy applies to workers in the building and construction, community sector, security, and services industries. Both full-time and part-time employees are eligible, and in some cases, casual workers may also be included.

3. Types of Leave:

• Personal/Carer’s Leave: Workers can take paid leave for their own illness or to care for a family member who is ill. The number of paid days off per year varies based on employment status and specific contract terms.
• Compassionate Leave: This leave is available for workers who need to deal with the death or terminal illness of a family member. The duration is typically a few days, depending on the circumstances and employer policies.
• Unpaid Family and Domestic Violence Leave: Workers can take up to 10 days of unpaid leave to address issues related to family and domestic violence, ensuring they have the time to manage their safety and well-being.

4. Employer Obligations:

• Notification: Employers are required to inform their workers about their entitlements to this leave.
• Non-Discrimination: Employers must ensure that workers are not discriminated against for taking leave.
• Record Keeping: Employers must maintain records of leave taken by workers, including the type and duration of leave.

5. Worker Rights:

• Requesting Leave: Workers can request leave without fear of retaliation or negative consequences.
• Privacy: Employers must respect the privacy of workers, especially when leave is requested for sensitive issues like family and domestic violence.
• Reinstatement: Workers are entitled to return to their job or a comparable position after taking leave.

6. Implementation and Enforcement:

• Legislation: The new leave policy is mandated by the ACT government and is part of the employment law in the territory.
• Compliance: Employers are required to comply with the law, and workers can seek assistance from the Fair Work Ombudsman or other relevant authorities if their rights are not respected.

Impact and Benefits

The introduction of this new leave policy is expected to have a significant positive impact on the well-being and job security of workers in these industries. By providing additional protections and benefits, the ACT government aims to reduce stress and financial burden on workers who need to take time off for personal or family reasons.

Minister for Industrial Relations, [Name], stated, “This new leave policy is a crucial step towards ensuring that our workers in the building and construction, community sector, security, and services industries have the support they need. We are committed to creating a fair and compassionate working environment for all ACT residents.”

What Employers and Workers Need to Know

Employers in the affected industries should familiarize themselves with the new leave entitlements and update their policies and procedures accordingly. Workers should also be aware of their rights and how to request leave without facing any undue pressure or discrimination.

For more information and to ensure compliance, employers and workers can visit the ACT government’s industrial relations website or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.