NEW reproductive health leave entitlements will be rolled out in Queensland in the coming months, including nation-leading leave adjustments.
Workers will receive 10 days of leave for reproductive health and have superannuation contributions paid on parental leave – paid and unpaid.
The 10 days’ reproductive health leave will be effective from September 30.
The State Government will provide 10 days of leave for reproductive health care to all Government-owned corporations, Queensland Rail and Seqwater.
This is a major expansion of the Australian-first initiative to a further 24,000 government workers.
In May this year, the State Government also announced the payment of superannuation on all parental leave whether the period was paid or unpaid.
Premier Steven Miles said the announced entitlements were making history in the state.
“By September 30, the extension of these entitlements will mean that government- owned corporations will have access to dedicated leave for things like IVF, endometriosis, vasectomies or reproductive cancer screenings,” he said.
“I always want Queensland’s incredible public sector to shine as an employer of choice and I hope to see other organisations follow our lead when it comes to backing the health and equity of workers.
“This is both about improving pay equity for women in the workforce and supporting the health and wellbeing of the workers who make this state a better place.”
Minister for Industrial Relations Grace Grace added: “Our workforce is built on community and our children, the future of our workforce – no parent should look back at their super statements in retirement and see big gaps where they had to stop saving because they were taking care of children.
“We know women have been disproportionately impacted by this, and this entitlements package is a lasting promise that we will do what needs to be done in closing the gap.
“These workplace entitlements will break down so many barriers for women.”
