Unions NSW is making a concerted push to secure reproductive leave in state awards, ensuring hundreds thousands of public sector workers get the workplace rights they deserve from the nation’s largest employer.
A wide ranging new report - Reproductive Leave, It’s for Every Body! - exposes how the absence of reproductive leave is forcing workers in NSW to postpone critical healthcare, affecting their health, productivity, and workplace participation.
Results of a survey of more than 1000 workers found 49 per cent postponed essential treatment due to lack of leave, while 81 per cent had their ability to work affected by reproductive issues.
“With NSW as the largest employer in the country, we have an opportunity to lead by example and give workers the rights they need now - not years down the track,” Karen Willis, Gender Equity Officer at Unions NSW said.
“These findings paint a concerning picture of workers being forced to choose between their health and their job. No worker should have to delay critical healthcare because they can’t access appropriate leave.”
Unions NSW has formally written to NSW Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis, calling for the state government to lead by example and implement reproductive leave in state public sector awards.
In the letter, Unions NSW urged the government to take immediate action: "The NSW Government has a unique opportunity to lead the way by implementing a dedicated reproductive leave entitlement for all employees within the NSW Public Service. As the largest employer in the Southern Hemisphere, a commitment to this reform would set a precedent for the broader workforce and affirm its dedication to health equity and workplace participation."
The letter calls for a minimum of 10 days paid reproductive leave per year for public sector workers, as well as flexible working arrangements and workplace adjustments, aligning with national health strategies.
“While there is a national campaign for 10-day reproductive leave entitlement, we are not waiting. We are taking proactive steps now to get the ball rolling and secure it in state awards,” Ms Willis said.
“As the largest employer in the Southern Hemisphere, the NSW public sector has an opportunity to set a new standard for workplace rights. This would benefit thousands of essential workers including nurses, teachers and community service employees.
“Workers are suffering and we need action now. This is about fundamental health rights in the workplace and it is time for NSW to lead the way. We are urging the state government to support the move and set a precedent by bringing reproductive leave into workplace entitlements immediately.”
The survey found strong support for reproductive leave, with more than 90 per cent of respondents indicating it would help them better manage their reproductive health.
Contact details:
Lauren Ferri: 0422 581 506 // lauren@hortonadvisory.com.au
