Financial stress, unemployment, disability and poor health are all factors in domestic violence, new analysis of Australian statistics shows.
Camera IconFinancial stress, unemployment, disability and poor health are all factors in domestic violence, new analysis of Australian statistics shows. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Bank staff promised paid DV leave

AAPWestern Suburbs Weekly

COMMONWEALTH Bank has promised unlimited paid leave to any staff member affected by domestic and family violence, becoming one of the largest companies in Australia to do so.

The lender announced on Friday it was revising its 10 days paid leave policy to provide to an uncapped amount of time for any of its 48,200-plus staff who are affected by a domestic violence issue.

CBA joins other Big Four banks ANZ and National Australia Bank in offering an uncapped amount of leave.

PerthNow Digital Edition.
Your local paper, whenever you want it.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

“Due to the size of our workforce and the horrifying scale of this issue in our community, we know we have many people who work here who are directly impacted by domestic and family violence,” CBA human resources executive Sian Lewis said.

“This may include time away from work to navigate the immediate crisis, attend medical appointments, meet with counsellors, secure safe housing, or to meet legal obligations.”

The bank said it will also continue to provide five days paid leave for any employee helping an immediate family member or a member of their household.

— For advice and support, contact:

The Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline on 9233 1188, free call 1800 007 339 or visit www.womenscouncil.com.au.

The National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), NRS: 1800 555 677, interpreter: 13 14 50, or visit www.1800respect.org.au.

Lifeline 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au.