37. Domestic violence leave

37.1.  The University recognises that some of its staff may experience situations of violence and abuse in their domestic life which may impact on their attendance or performance at work. Domestic violence refers to physical, sexual, financial, verbal or emotional abuse by a family member or household member. 

37.2.  Staff can access the free and confidential University counselling services and/or the ACT Domestic Violence Crisis Service for support.

37.3.  In order to support a staff member experiencing domestic violence and provide a safe and supportive workplace, the University will favourably consider reasonable requests for domestic violence leave, variations in work arrangements including changes to hours, transfer to more suitable work where available, changes to telephone and email addresses, and other flexible working arrangements.

37.4.  Where a staff member identifies as being subject to domestic violence, all related information will be kept confidential and access to this information will be restricted to University staff providing direct support and assistance.

Application for domestic violence leave

37.5.  A staff member may make a confidential application to the Director – Human Resources to access paid domestic violence leave, and/or request the replacement of any other leave which was taken as a result of experiencing domestic violence.  No reasonable request will be refused.

37.6.  The amount of domestic violence leave granted will be determined by the staff member’s individual circumstances through consultation with the Director – Human Resources.