The health and well being of our employees is foremost in our mind at Gemba. Without a team that is healthy and happy, business comes to a standstill. More importantly, we value our employees as people and it is important that we look after each other.

To that end, as a business, we are constantly looking for ways to support our team members in both the good and the challenging times. Whether that be with our Flexibility and Paid Parental Leave policy, our Employee Assistance Program, or formally checking on their Work/Life balance on a regular basis, the health and well being of our team is of utmost importance.

In August this year, the Australian Fair Work Commission ruled that all Australian employees covered by modern awards are now entitled to five days of unpaid leave if they are affected by family or domestic violence. Whilst this is a good start to recognising and supporting employees who are experiencing domestic violence, it’s far from ideal when dealing with the practical realities of the situation.

After much consideration, Gemba has developed on a policy which we believe will truly assist any employee both financially, emotionally and practically should they find themselves in this situation. The new Policy provides our permanent and casual employees with 10 days of paid leave and the full entitlement is available from the moment they commence employment at Gemba. The time can be used to get medical and legal assistance, attend court appearances, attend counselling, used for relocation or to make other safety arrangements.

It is important that as an organisation we provide physical, emotional, financial, and practical support to any employee who is a victim or sufferer of Family and Domestic Violence. Our employees are not alone, and it is important that they not only feel supported, but that they know that their FDV situation will not have adverse consequences for their employment.

Anyone can experience family and domestic violence and whilst we hope that our employees are never unfortunate enough to find themselves in this situation, Gemba will ensure that they are as safe and supported as can be.

Should you or anyone you know be experiencing family and domestic violence, it is important to know your rights. Below is information from Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) on these rights.

• You can apply for a protection order (AVO) through a solicitor or the police,
• Centrelink crisis payments can help with immediate financial concerns,
• Free counselling is available through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) – www.1800respect.org.au
• You may be eligble for emergency accommodation or increased security at home. Check with National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service for local referals.
• Free legal services are available through many Community Legal Centres.

For New Zealanders, you can find support here: www.lifeline.org.nz or call 0800 543 354

For information on how to best support someone suffering from family and domestic violence, visit the supporting someone section of the 1800RESPECT website.