Greens want 12 days of reproductive leave for all workers

As part of its election platform, the Greens have introduced a policy for 12 days of paid reproductive health leave per year. According to Senator Larissa Waters, “No one should have to suffer financially to manage their reproductive health.”

In a bill introduced by Senator Larissa Waters, who is the Greens leader in the Senate and spokesperson on women, the Greens are pushing for 12 days of paid reproductive health leave per year in the National Employment Standards and modern awards.

The bill would also ensure women can access flexible working arrangements during menopause and allow the Workplace Gender Equality Agency to recommence data collection on employers’ menopause policies and leave.

Waters said, in a statement, that all Australians, regardless of sex or gender, are likely to experience reproductive health issues at some point in their working lives, and many such health issues can take a serious physical and mental toll on workers.

While some people may simply need workplace flexibility, she submitted, those who need paid leave to manage their reproductive health should be able to access it without jeopardising their employment.

In introducing the bill, Waters said: “No one should have to suffer financially to manage their reproductive health.

“All employees, regardless of their gender, would be able to access reproductive health leave. Much like paid family and domestic violence leave, this leave would be accessible to all workers, irrespective of their employment status: casual, part- and full-time employees.

“Whether it’s for perimenopause and menopause, fertility treatments, chronic conditions like endometriosis or preventative screening for prostate cancer – it’s about supporting workers at every stage of life.

“If someone wants to get a vasectomy or be with their partner for the first scan of their baby, they will be able to under this entitlement.

“Evidence to the Senate inquiry into menopause and perimenopause was that many women are leaving the workforce earlier to deal with their symptoms, whereas allowing them to access leave or request flexibility could see them continue in the workforce longer.

“By providing paid leave and adding perimenopause and menopause as reasons employees can request flexible working arrangements, this bill delivers on Australian Unions’ It’s For Every Body campaign and supports evidence given by HSU and ACTU during the Senate inquiry.”

She added: “We can have a society where everyone is able to manage their reproductive health, without leaving their jobs or suffering financial consequences.

“If you want to see that change this election, there is hope. The Greens are within reach of winning new seats across the country. With a minority government predicted, the Greens will keep Dutton out and get Labor to act.”